A Limited Narrative and your Internal Dialogue

A limited narrative reveals itself when your internal dialogue or life story feels restrictive, repetitive, or overly influenced by fear, self-doubt, or past experiences. Here are some signs to watch for:

1. Repetitive Themes of Limitation

• You frequently think or say things like “I can’t,” “I’m not good enough,” or “Things never work out for me.”

• Your goals and dreams feel unreachable because your story doesn’t include the possibility of success or transformation.

2. Stuck in Past Patterns

• You replay past failures or mistakes, allowing them to define your present and future.

• You might think, “This is just the way I am,” without considering the potential for growth or change.

3. External Blame or Dependency

• You place the responsibility for your circumstances on others, such as partners, employers, or the world at large, rather than recognising your own agency.

• Statements like “I’ll be happy when…” reflect a belief that fulfilment comes only from external sources.

4. Fear of the Unknown

• You avoid taking risks or trying new things, clinging to what feels safe even if it no longer serves you.

• You might tell yourself, “It’s better to stay where I am than risk failing.”

5. Judgement and Comparison

• Your narrative is shaped by comparing yourself to others, often leading to feelings of inadequacy.

• You believe “They’re lucky, and I’m not,” or “I could never be like them.”

6. Lack of Self-Worth

• Your story omits self-compassion, focusing on criticism or downplaying your strengths.

• Phrases like “Who am I to try?” or “I’m not deserving of more,” dominate your thinking.

How to Shift the Narrative:

• Identify and Rewrite: Notice the recurring thoughts that keep you small. Replace them with empowering beliefs, e.g., change “I can’t do this” to “I’m learning to do this.”

• Expand Your Vision: Challenge yourself to imagine what life could look like if your story included hope, growth, and possibility.

• Seek Support: Sometimes a limited narrative is deeply ingrained. Working with a coach or mentor can help untangle these patterns and inspire fresh perspectives.

By becoming the storyteller of your own life, you can rewrite even the most constraining narratives into ones filled with freedom, purpose, and self-belief.