Circus trainers used to tie a chain around a baby elephant's
ankle to stop it from escaping. The chain would be connected
to a tall spike which was hammered deep into the ground.
As a baby, the elephant was not strong enough to pull out
the spike, and so it learned not to try. As the elephant
became fully grown, it continued to believe that it could
not escape, even though it was easily strong enough.
The moral of the story is:
If you don't test some of your old, limiting beliefs, you
will stay stuck in your present circumstances.
So how many invisible chains do you have tied around your
ankles?
Successful people have learned how to break through those
limiting beliefs that hold them back from achieving their
goals. For example, they believe they are not too old to
try something new - they are wise. Nor are they too young
- they have energy. Unlike the elephant destined
to walk around and around in circles, successful people
choose a direction and don't give up until they get there.
You can free yourself from chains and spikes in all areas
of your life. Is there a situation you seem to find
yourself in time and time again? Do you feel "stuck"? If
so, pick one thing hat you feel could be holding you back
from achieving success. That is a strong limiting belief.
Chances are, just like the elephant doubting its own
strength, you are doubting your own ability. Try acting
"as if" you don't have that belief any more, and see what
kind of results you get. You just might surprise yourself!
© 2005 Petra Rankin
About the Author
Petra Rankin used powerful techniques to beat her own long-term depression. She is now dedicated to teaching others how to be happier and lead more successful lives. Subscribe to Achieving Our Potential (and beyond) by e-mail or view the weblog updated daily: http://www.petrarankin.briefbooks.com.au/weblog.