Beliefs and inner rules: How they influence us and what we can do
- services28715
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
Our inner "rules of the game" determine how we think, feel and act. They are deeply rooted in our beliefs and influence what opportunities we see for ourselves or what hurdles seem insurmountable. They often stand in the way of our full potential and our goals by limiting us, putting us under pressure or distracting us.
Why internal rules are so difficult to change
Many influencers or coaches advise: "You just have to change your mindset." That sounds simple, but the reality is more complex. Our thought and feeling patterns are not easy to change because they have developed over years or decades. They arise from:
Education and childhood experiences – What we learned as children about success, achievement and self-worth often shapes us for the rest of our lives.
Social and cultural influences – norms and values of our environment influence our way of thinking, often unconsciously.
Experiences in the world of work – corporate structures and work cultures reinforce certain thought patterns, such as perfectionism or the feeling of never achieving enough.
How beliefs limit us
Inner rules often manifest themselves in negative or limiting beliefs, such as:
"I always have to be perfect, otherwise I won't be appreciated."
"Success must be worked hard for."
"I'm not creative enough to implement my own ideas."
Such thought patterns can lead to stress, self-doubt and even the avoidance of opportunities. But how can we challenge and redesign them?
Strategies for transforming old rules of the game
Be aware and question: Which inner rules govern you? Ask yourself: Where do they come from? Who do they serve? Are they still valid or rather outdated?
Rephrase beliefs: Instead of "I must not make mistakes," a new internal rule could be: "Mistakes are opportunities to learn."
Create new experiences: We believe what we experience often enough. By trying new things and having success with them, we can soften old patterns.
Mental work and self-reflection: Methods such as journaling, meditation or coaching can help to gradually change deep-seated beliefs.
Find a supportive environment: People who support us in our development can help us consolidate our new rules of the game.
Conclusion
Beliefs and inner rules often influence our lives unconsciously. Simply "changing your mindset" is rarely enough to break through deeply rooted thought patterns. Conscious reflection, new experiences and a supportive environment are needed to bring about truly sustainable change. The first step is to become aware of these invisible rules - because we can only change what we recognize.
