Breaking Down Imaginary Limits
You Have What It Takes
I recently realized that I don’t give myself enough credit for what I am capable of and what I do well. I have spent years suggesting to colleagues and friends seeking input on a particular topic to check in with others who I labeled as more competent. This habit permeated both music and many other facets of life.
I have come to recognize that the messages I received from others on life’s journey shaped this unnecessary habit. Slowly I am coming out of this fog. Questioning why and how do I know these beliefs.
This weekend my imaginary beliefs were blown out of the water when I climbed up an industrial storage container. Yes, you read that correctly, I climbed up and industrial storage container. Not only that, I climbed down on the other side which didn’t have the horizontal grooves and handles that you see in my picture, check out the side of the container - yes only vertical grooves.
I had no idea what I was in for in this week’s Parkour class. The coach posed a question, and being an enthusiastic student, I answered (first.) To which the coach responded, “okay go up.”
Wait, what? The container is approximately 8.5 feet tall. Could I really climb to the top or would I be a bystander and watch my colleagues ascend and descend? I approached the container, and what do you know, I got up easier than I imagined.
Getting down was another mental challenge. I had to call upon the skills I regularly work on to navigate environmental obstacles with ease and fluidity. With a little thought, some coaching, and encouragement I was down the other side.
It is moments like these that scream out to me
“your potential is unlimited”. “go for it”
“ if you can climb this container, you can do anything”
This thrilling reminder is one I will not let go of. Now when I am asked to edit writing, I will do it without apologizing for the fact I didn’t get into AP English in 12th grade. When I am asked to play, I will play with all of my intention and joy. And when I meet my next movement challenge, I will call on my skills and go for it!
What imagined limiting beliefs are you carrying in your life. Question and challenge them. If that doesn’t work go out and do something you never thought you would do.
Be curious…
After class a friend and I had fun jumping across the gap between the containers. Brought me back to the Parkour episode of The Office.