You Can Do Anything You Put Your Mind To: Unlocking Your Full Potential

What if I told you that you can do anything you put your mind to? Would you believe me? Although it’s a powerful statement that holds a lot of truth, it often get’s the cynical brush-off. The paradox here is that you must believe you can do anything you put your mind to for that statement to become true. Our mindset plays a crucial role in determining our success and achievements in life. When we believe in ourselves and our abilities, we truly can overcome any obstacle and crush our goals.

The Power of Belief

Conscious vs. Unconscious (Limiting) Beliefs

There are two general types of limiting beliefs: conscious, and unconscious.  Conscious beliefs are things that we tell ourselves that aren’t necessarily true but that are generally accepted as truth within a family, a community, or a culture. To call them limiting means that they are simply not serving you. Let me give you an example: if you come from a family of high school dropouts, living in a community of like-minded people, who have worked hard all their life to put food on the table, you’ll likely believe that academia and wealth is outside of your reach.  Is that the truth?  Absolutely not, but it will likely feel that way to you in that situation. 

A conscious limiting belief can also be formed without influence from family, community, or culture.  Pavlov’s dog experiment, a classic in behavioral psychology, can shed light on how a conscious limiting belief can be formed. In this experiment, Ivan Pavlov conditioned dogs to associate the ringing of a bell with food, eventually causing the dogs to salivate at just the sound of the bell.

Let’s use this experiment as an analogy to illustrate the creation of a limiting belief:

1. Neutral Stimulus (Bell): Imagine a person, let’s call them “Jane,” who has a neutral experience in their past, such as receiving constructive criticism. This initial experience is like the neutral stimulus in Pavlov’s experiment.
2. Unconscious Reaction (Salivation): Initially, Jane might have an unconscious reaction to the neutral experience. This reaction could be self-doubt or a slight feeling of inadequacy, akin to the dog’s salivation in response to the bell.
3. Repetition (Association): If Jane encounters similar experiences repeatedly, like the bell ringing repeatedly in the experiment, the association between the neutral experience and the unconscious reaction can strengthen. For instance, every time she faces criticism, that feeling of self-doubt intensifies.
4. Generalization (Bell rings, dog salivates): Just as the dog eventually salivates at the mere sound of a bell, Jane starts to experience self-doubt not only during criticism but in various situations related to her abilities or achievements. The initial neutral experience (criticism) has now become a trigger for her limiting belief.
5. Belief Formation (Limiting Belief): Over time, Jane forms a conscious limiting belief that she is not capable enough or is always prone to failure, stemming from these repeated experiences and the associated feelings of self-doubt.

In this analogy, the neutral experience (initial constructive criticism) becomes associated with a negative emotional reaction (self-doubt) through repetition and reinforcement. Eventually, this leads to the formation of a limiting belief that affects Jane’s perception of her capabilities and actions. If someone were to tell Jane: “You can do anything you put your mind to”, she would likely shrug, and tell you that that simply isn’t true.

What about unconscious limiting beliefs?  Notice how initially, in the analogy above, Jane’s limiting belief existed in her unconscious before breaking through to her conscious awareness?  Well oftentimes, beliefs stay in the unconscious, never surfacing to our awareness.  We carry a surprisingly high number of limiting beliefs in our unconscious, that we have no knowledge or awareness of that end up seriously hindering our progress towards our dreams and goals. So, think of it this way: you can do anything you put your mind to, unless your unconscious is working against you, in which case you’ll have to clean house first. Later in the article, I will share tips on how to accomplish this.

Where our Limiting Beliefs Come From

We’ve learned that our limiting beliefs can come from our family, our community, as well as our culture. If your parents tell you that you can do anything you put your mind to repeatedly throughout your childhood, then you’ll be much better equipped to follow your dreams. You’ll achieve success that’s tailored to you much more easily than you would if your parents tell you and show you that life is hard, and you need to work hard doing things that you don’t necessarily love just to make ends meet.  This is an example of both a “positive” belief (or a belief that serves you), and a limiting belief; depending on how your parents see the world. 

Our own current and past reality is not the only place we acquire limiting beliefs. Surprisingly, some of our limiting beliefs may have roots that extend beyond our own experiences and are encoded in our DNA through a process known as epigenetic inheritance.

Epigenetic inheritance suggests that certain experiences and environmental factors can leave a lasting impact on our genes, influencing not only our physical traits but also our psychological predispositions. This means that the beliefs and experiences of our ancestors can potentially shape our own mindset and beliefs.

One fascinating aspect of epigenetic inheritance is the transmission of epigenetic marks from one generation to the next. These marks are not changes in the DNA sequence itself but modifications to the DNA molecule or its associated proteins. They can be influenced by various factors, including our ancestors’ experiences, lifestyle, and environment.

For instance, consider a scenario where our ancestors faced significant challenges or limitations in their lives. These experiences could have triggered epigenetic changes in their DNA, potentially affecting genes related to resilience, self-belief, or risk-taking. As a result, these epigenetic marks could be passed down to subsequent generations, including us.

While the exact mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance are still being studied, there is evidence suggesting its potential influence on our beliefs and behaviors. A study conducted by researchers at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the Bronx Veterans Affairs Hospital explored the transmission of epigenetic marks associated with stress response across generations. The findings indicated that the offspring of individuals who experienced high levels of stress exhibited altered stress response patterns, even without directly experiencing the same stressors themselves.

Understanding the concept of epigenetic inheritance allows us to recognize that some of our limiting beliefs may not be solely our own. They could be inherited from our ancestors, imprinted in our DNA, and influencing our mindset and potential. It’s important to note that beliefs (good or bad) have their wires throughout our nervous system, so when I say that they are unconscious, it doesn’t mean they exist solely in the mind, it simply means that we are unaware of their existence.

However, it’s important to remember that we are not bound by these inherited beliefs. Later in this article I will explain how you can challenge and reshape your beliefs so that you can do anything you put your mind to.

By acknowledging the potential influence of epigenetic inheritance on our beliefs, we can begin to explore and question the origins of our limitations. We can break free from the constraints of inherited beliefs and open ourselves up to new possibilities and untapped potential.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

To cultivate a growth mindset, start by embracing challenges. Instead of shying away from difficult tasks, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Embrace failure as a stepping stone towards success. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals who believe in your potential. With a growth mindset, you’ll continuously strive for improvement and reach new heights. Once you’ve cultivated and nourished a growth mindset, you CAN do anything you put your mind to!

Taking Action and Persisting

Belief and mindset alone are not enough. Taking consistent action is key to turning dreams into reality. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps and create a plan of action. Celebrate small wins along the way to stay motivated and focused.

Persistence is another crucial element in achieving success. There will be obstacles and setbacks along the way, but it’s important to keep going. Remember, every failure is a lesson in disguise. Learn from your mistakes, adjust your approach, and keep pushing forward.

It’s important here to mention that people don’t fail, instead, they give up. Take the story of KFC and its founder, Colonel Harland Sanders: an inspiring tale of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination. Colonel Sanders faced numerous challenges throughout his life, but he never let them deter him from pursuing his dreams.

Starting his career as a humble cook, Colonel Sanders had a passion for creating delicious food. He spent years perfecting his secret recipe, a blend of 11 herbs and spices that would become the cornerstone of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). However, his journey to success was far from easy.

Imagine this: a man in his 60s, wearing his iconic white suit, traveling from one restaurant to another, tirelessly promoting his secret recipe. Colonel Sanders faced rejection after rejection, with over 1,000 doors being closed in his face. But he refused to give up.

During this challenging time, Colonel Sanders faced financial difficulties. He often found himself sleeping in his car, with nothing but his determination to keep him going. Despite the hardships, he remained steadfast in his belief that his recipe was something special, something that could bring joy to people’s lives.

Finally, his perseverance paid off. His secret recipe caught the attention of restaurant owners who recognized its potential. The first KFC franchise was born, and from there, the brand grew exponentially.

I certainly don’t have to tell you that today, KFC is a global phenomenon, with thousands of restaurants spanning across more than 140 countries. Colonel Sanders’ white suit has become an iconic symbol of his dedication and commitment to his vision.

The story of Colonel Sanders teaches us valuable lessons. It reminds us that success often requires us to face rejection and overcome obstacles. It shows us the power of believing in oneself and never giving up, no matter how challenging the circumstances may be.

So, the next time you face setbacks or doubts on your own journey, remember Colonel Sanders’ story. Let it inspire you to keep pushing forward, to embrace resilience, and to believe in the power of your dreams. With perseverance and an unwavering belief in yourself, you CAN do anything you put your mind to.

Surrounding Yourself with Support

Remember, you end up being the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Choose your circle wisely and surround yourself with individuals who believe in your dreams and encourage your growth.

Overcome Fear and Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Fear is a natural part of growth, but it shouldn’t hold you back. Challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone and embrace new opportunities. Take calculated risks and view failures as valuable lessons. Remember, the greatest growth happens when you push past your limits and face your fears head-on.

Believe in Yourself

Above all, believe in yourself and your abilities. Trust that you have what it takes to achieve your goals. Banish self-doubt and replace it with self-confidence. Visualize your success and affirm it daily. Imagine that you’ve already accomplished what you’ve set out to do. Really feel the emotions. Remember, you are capable of greatness, and the only limits that exist are the ones you set for yourself. And remember, you CAN do anything you put your mind to!

You Can Do Anything You Put Your Mind To but Don’t Tackle Everything Alone

While the belief that you can do anything you put your mind to is empowering, it’s important to acknowledge that roadblocks and challenges may arise along the way. These roadblocks can sometimes hinder your progress and make it difficult to stay motivated. However, with the right support and guidance, such as one-on-one coaching, you can overcome these obstacles and continue on your path to success. Let’s explore some common roadblocks and how coaching can help you navigate through them.

Self-Doubt and Limiting Beliefs

One of the most significant roadblocks to achieving your goals is self-doubt and limiting beliefs. These negative thoughts can hold you back, making you question your abilities and potential. One-on-one coaching provides a safe and supportive space to address these doubts and challenge your limiting beliefs. The truth is that limiting beliefs are just illusions. They are not based on facts or reality. A coach can help you reframe your mindset, identify your strengths, and build self-confidence. Through personalized guidance, you’ll learn to overcome self-doubt and embrace a more empowering belief system.

Lack of Clarity and Direction

Sometimes, you may have a general idea of what you want to achieve but lack clarity and direction on how to get there. This lack of clarity can lead to confusion and frustration, making it challenging to make progress. A coach can help you gain clarity by asking thought-provoking questions, helping you define your goals, and creating a roadmap to success. They can assist you in breaking down your goals into actionable steps, ensuring that you stay focused and motivated along the way.

Procrastination and Lack of Accountability

Procrastination is a common roadblock that can hinder your progress. Without someone to hold you accountable, it’s easy to put off tasks and lose momentum. Coaching provides the accountability you need to stay on track. A coach will help you set deadlines, establish a routine, and provide gentle reminders to keep you motivated and committed to taking consistent action. They will also help you identify and overcome any underlying reasons for procrastination, ensuring that you stay productive and make steady progress.

Overwhelm and Burnout

When pursuing ambitious goals, it’s common to experience overwhelm and burnout. Juggling multiple responsibilities and striving for excellence can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. A coach can help you manage overwhelm by teaching you effective time management techniques, helping you prioritize tasks, and encouraging self-care practices. They will guide you in creating a balanced approach to achieving your goals, ensuring that you maintain your well-being throughout the journey.

Lack of Support and Accountability

Embarking on a journey towards your goals can sometimes feel lonely, especially if you lack a support system. Coaching provides the support and accountability you need to stay motivated and focused. Your coach will be your cheerleader, offering encouragement, celebrating your wins, and providing guidance during challenging times. They will be there to listen, offer perspective, and help you navigate through obstacles, ensuring that you never feel alone on your path to success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the phrase “You can do anything you put your mind to” holds immense power. By cultivating a positive mindset, challenging self-limiting beliefs, embracing a growth mindset, taking action, persisting, and surrounding yourself with support, you can unlock your full potential and achieve greatness.

Believe in yourself, trust in your abilities, and never underestimate the power of your mind. You have the potential to accomplish anything you set your mind to. So go out there and make your dreams a reality!

While roadblocks may arise on your journey to achieving anything you put your mind to, one-on-one coaching can be a powerful tool to help you overcome these challenges. Through personalized guidance, support, and accountability, a coach can help you address self-doubt, gain clarity, overcome procrastination, manage overwhelm, and provide the support you need to stay motivated. Remember, you have the power to overcome any roadblock and create the life you desire. With the right coach by your side, your potential is limitless. Remember, you CAN do anything you put your mind to!

If you’re ready to overcome roadblocks and unlock your full potential, consider exploring the benefits of one-on-one coaching. It could be the catalyst that propels you towards achieving your goals and living a fulfilling life. Remember, I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you need any further guidance or have any questions, feel free to reach out. You’ve got this!

Schedule a FREE 30 minute consultation with me today to discuss your challenges and aspirations, and I’ll explain exactly how I can help you to align yourself to take full advantage of the concept of “You Can Do Anything You Put Your Mind To”!

Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you’ll call it fate.

Carl Jung