When am I Good Enough?
Have you ever felt like you're constantly chasing an elusive sense of self-worth? Feeling good…but the essence of trrrrue self-worth always just out of reach?
It's like running a marathon with the finish line perpetually moving away 🙄
This feeling, often rooted in deep-seated beliefs of "never being good enough," is a common struggle. But what if I told you that the journey to self-worth is less about reaching a destination and more about embracing the journey itself?
What if the journey to self-worth is less about external validation and more about internal acceptance and understanding?
Understanding the Root:
Many (I want to say most) of us carry a limiting belief that we're not good enough and the way in manifests in our lives is what differs (unless of course, we've done the subconscious work to shine a light on these beliefs and patterns).
This belief often stems from early life experiences and is buried deep within our subconscious mind. It's like an old tape playing in the background, influencing our thoughts and actions, often without us even realising it.
These beliefs are often reinforced by societal expectations, creating a cycle that's hard to break.
Gaining Self-Awareness:
The first step in changing this narrative is awareness! It's like turning on a light in a room that's been dark for too long. It involves recognising these limiting beliefs and understanding their origins. You start to see things clearly, understanding where these feelings originate. This awareness often comes through moments of introspection (whether thats during some me-time, journalling, meditation...whatever works for you!)
Introspection is the examination of one's own conscious thoughts and feelings. In psychology, the process of introspection relies on the observation of one's mental state, while in a spiritual context it may refer to the examination of one's soul.
Journal Prompts for Deeper Insight:
"When and in what areas do I most often feel that I'm not good enough?"
"What are the common triggers?"
Join the Monthly Resource Letter for more Journal Prompts to provide Deeper Insights and more! It's a gentle non-spammy kinda email I promise
The Role of Somatic Therapy:
Somatic therapy offers a profound way to connect with and release the emotional and physical manifestations of these beliefs. It's about listening to the body's wisdom, understanding its language of sensations and emotions.
For instance, a tightness in the chest may reveal unacknowledged feelings of inadequacy.
Through somatic practices, we learn to listen, validate and acknowledge these physical tensions, thereby in most instances releasing them and addressing the emotional roots beneath them!
As an IFS enthusiast this modality also offers a unique perspective, viewing the psyche as made up of different parts, each with its own role and story. It's like a family living inside you, with each member holding a piece of your self-worth puzzle. By understanding these parts, we start to heal and integrate them, fostering a sense of wholeness.
When it comes to feelings of worthiness (or any emotion or feelings) we're not looking to "get rid of them" but rather welcome those parts in, understanding them and offering them as best we can what it is that they needed back "then" annnd now! Which leads us to inner child and shadow work...
The Power of Inner Child and Shadow Work:
Inner child work involves nurturing the child within, often the source of our deepest wounds. Shadow work, on the other hand, is about embracing the parts we've rejected.
Both practices are crucial in healing the belief of not being good enough, as they allow us to confront and reframe our deepest fears and insecurities.
Creating New Neural Pathways:
Changing deep-seated beliefs involves forging new neural pathways. It's like creating a new trail where there isnt one! The more you walk this new path, the more familiar it becomes.
I'm over simplifying here but this requires consistent practices, such as:
Mindful Repetition: Regularly practicing new thought patterns.
Visualisation: Imagining oneself embodying feelings of worthiness.
Role-playing: Practicing scenarios where one feels competent and valued.
This process involves consistent practice, patience, and self-compassion.
AND GRACE!
Working with a therapist can provide deeper insights and tools for healing.
Not Bypassing the Subconscious Mind:
True transformation requires delving into the subconscious, the storehouse of our beliefs and experiences.
It's about exploring every aspect of our psyche, understanding the hidden narratives that shape our sense of self-worth.
Join the Monthly Resource Letter for Practical Steps to Reprogram Limiting Beliefs in addition to more Journal Prompts (cause I know you like those!)
Embracing self-worth is about recognising and nurturing the inherent value within YOU. It's a journey of self-discovery, healing, and ultimately, freedom.
Remember, you are worthy, not for what you do or achieve, but for who you are.
If this has expanded your desire to further journey the path from feeling stuck to LIVING & THRIVING in your own authentic FREEDOM as we find your inner resources, unlearn non-deserving beliefs, close looping patterns and connect to your true nature & EXPRESSION, contact Nicole and schedule a Free Discovery Call today.
