The stories we tell ourselves

Are they helping us or holding us back?
We all tell ourselves stories.
Sometimes they’re empowering:
“I always find a way through.”
Other times, they’re limiting:
“I’ve always been this way, so why bother trying?”
These stories become the lens through which we view ourselves and the world around us.
They shape our habits, drive our decisions, and even dictate how much success or happiness we believe we deserve. And most of the time? We’re not even aware we’re reading from that book.
But here’s the thing: if we don’t pause and examine these stories, we risk living a life that’s not fully ours.
Why Do We Tell Ourselves Stories?
From an early age, our brains are wired to make sense of the world through narratives. A story gives structure to chaos. It explains why things happen, who we are, and what’s possible for us.
Unfortunately, not all of these stories are true but most of these stories are set by the age of 7. Many are built from fear, wounds and other people’s expectations.
We start to believe things like:
“I’m not a runner.”
“Healthy eating just isn’t for me.”
“I can’t stick to anything.”
“People like me don’t succeed.”
Over time, these thoughts become identities. And identities become reality — not because they’re fact, but because we act in alignment with them.
Growth Starts with Awareness
The first step to rewriting your story isn’t action. It’s awareness.
Ask yourself:
What are the recurring things I say about myself or my life?
Where did those stories come from?
Are they based on evidence — or emotion?
Do they limit me or help me grow?
When you notice a limiting belief showing up, don’t shame yourself. Instead, get curious. That voice saying, “You’ll never be fit” may not be your truth — it may be a 12-year-old version of you trying to protect you from failure.
Choosing a New Story
You have the power to choose a story that serves you better.
Instead of
“I’ve never been consistent,” try
“I’m learning what consistency looks like for me.”
Instead of
“I always fall off track,” try
“I’m creating a lifestyle that’s aligned with who I truly am.”
This isn’t about pretending everything’s perfect — it’s about reclaiming your narrative and recognising that beliefs can be rewired.
This Is What I Help My Clients Do
Through my programmes like The Reset and The Rewire, we explore the beliefs behind the stories. We uncover what’s holding you back, shift it at the root using cognitive rewiring, and create new, empowering narratives that actually align with the life you want to live.
Because the moment you start telling yourself a different story — one based on truth, not limitation — everything begins to change.