Challenging the Stories You Tell Yourself

Introduction: Your Thoughts Aren’t Always Truths

We all have stories we tell ourselves: "I'm not good enough." ; "I'm too much." ; "I'm a failure if I don't succeed perfectly."

These aren’t facts. They’re learned core beliefs—often picked up from childhood, school, relationships, or early life experiences. Over time, without even realizing it, these old scripts can shape how we see ourselves and how we move through the world.

Where Core Beliefs Come From

Core beliefs form early when we’re trying to make sense of the world and our place in it. Maybe you were praised only when you achieved something—so you learned that your worth depends on success. Maybe you were criticized often, so you internalized the belief that you’re "never enough." These beliefs can stick with us long after they stop being helpful—until we decide to challenge them.

Challenging Old Stories

✅ Start by Noticing: Listen for patterns in your self-talk. What themes come up when you're stressed or struggling?

✅ Ask Gentle Questions: When you notice a harsh thought, ask yourself: *"Is this an absolute truth, or is it a story I’ve been taught to believe?"

✅ Create New Narratives: Replace limiting beliefs with more compassionate, realistic alternatives. For example:

• Old Story: "I'm only valuable if I'm perfect."

• New Story: "I'm valuable because of who I am, not what I achieve."

  
  

Final Thoughts

You are not your harshest thoughts. You are not the outdated stories that once helped you survive but now hold you back. Challenging your core beliefs isn’t about pretending everything’s perfect—it’s about giving yourself permission to rewrite the script with truth, compassion, and hope.

📖 Ready to start challenging the stories holding you back? Let's talk. Book a session here.

References:

• Young, J. E., & Klosko, J. S. (1993). Reinventing Your Life. Penguin Books.

• Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond. Guilford Press.

• Psychology Today. (2023). Challenging Core Beliefs: A Path Toward Healing.