Set Higher Standards by YogiRavi

Limiting beliefs are false assumptions you make about a specific action and its result. Your repetitive actions create your values. Your values, well they turn into your beliefs. When your beliefs actually impede your ability to make progress…they are limiting beliefs.

Over the years it is easy to become set in your ways and no longer test the strategies and approaches that were created (consciously or unconscious) by watching others, reading and learning. After you gain a certain amount of proficiency in something, you go on autopilot. In the case of athletics, unless you are an Olympic caliber athlete, chances are that your autopilot is not heading in the best direction.

I used to hold a few limiting beliefs about weight training. These were really holding me back.

1. just weight training every now and then (i.e. once a week or so, perhaps twice) would be good enough. I now realize that to make sizeable size and strength gains, you need to have a much more committed and consistent approach.
2. miracles can happen over three months. I remember the kids who would come back after summer vacation and be totally huge. I assumed anyone could do that. I now realize it isn’t true for everyone…at least not in three months. Most people have no idea what their real strength is, but they drastically underestimate the effort it takes to achieve this potential.
3. keeping a log/diary is useless. I used to assume that writing stuff down was a waste of time. I assumed that just going by feel was a better approach. I now realize it is absolutely critical to write everything down. Data gives you leverage over your mind when it tells you not to add 5 pounds or 2 reps on the next set. If you aren’t making gains it becomes obvious when logged. I write everything down in a small black book as I am going through my weight workout. I have about 1 months worth of notes in this journal and it has become an invaluable tool. It keeps you honest.
4. I don’t have to change my current diet. I am now convinced that no significant and lasting change to your body can occur without a change to your diet.

It has been really hard to reprogram my brain to change these beliefs, but it is happening. I am already seeing the benefits.