Limiting beliefs are subconscious convictions that something is true about yourself, others, or the world that restricts you in some way.

They usually develop as a survival mechanism. Here are the primary drivers behind them:

Between the ages of 0 and 7, our brains are in a "theta" state—highly suggestible and similar to a state of hypnosis. During this time, we don't have a critical filter.

1. Parental Influence: If a parent frequently said "We can't afford that" or "You're always so messy," the child’s subconscious accepts this as an absolute fact of their identity.
2. Authority Figures: Teachers or coaches who criticized your abilities in specific areas (like math or public speaking) can create lifelong beliefs of "I'm not good at X."

Sometimes a belief isn't formed over years, but in a single second.

1. Protection: If you were embarrassed while speaking in class, your subconscious may create the belief "It is dangerous to be seen."
2. Survival Logic: The mind creates this belief to prevent you from ever feeling that specific pain again, even if it means holding you back from career growth later in life.

We are social creatures and have a strong urge to "fit in".

1. Peer Groups: We often adopt the limiting beliefs of our immediate circle of friends and family to maintain belonging. If everyone you know believes "success requires sacrifice," you will likely adopt that ceiling.
2. Media and Society: General cultural narratives about aging, gender, or wealth act as a constant "background program" that shapes what we believe is possible for ourselves.

Once a belief is formed (even if it's false), the brain actively looks for evidence to prove it right while ignoring evidence that proves it wrong.

• Example: If you believe "I am bad with money," your brain will hyper-focus on the one time you overspent, while completely forgetting the six months you saved successfully. This strengthens the belief over time.

Sometimes we hold onto a limiting belief because it actually provides a "hidden benefit" (Secondary Gain).

Safety in Smallness: 

A belief like "I don't have what it takes to lead" might be staying in place because it protects you from the responsibility and potential criticism that comes with leadership.

How Hypnosis Helps

Because these beliefs are stored in the subconscious mind, logical thinking often isn't enough to change them. Hypnosis allows us to:

1. Bypass the critical conscious mind.
2. Identify the "Initial Event" where the belief was born.
3. Reframe the experience so the mind no longer feels it needs that "protection."