Rewriting the Stories We Tell Ourselves

We all carry stories within us. Some of these stories inspire us, lift us up, and motivate us to move forward. But others? They hold us back. They’re the ones that whisper, “You’re not good enough,” or, “It’s too late for you.” The truth is, these stories are often just that—stories. And the beautiful thing about stories is that they can be rewritten.

Writing is one of the most powerful tools we have for uncovering and transforming the narratives that shape our lives. It helps us confront the lies we’ve accepted as truth and gives us the freedom to craft a story that reflects our true selves.

How Stories Shape Us

The stories we tell ourselves come from many places—childhood experiences, societal expectations, past failures, or fears of the unknown. Over time, these stories become beliefs, influencing how we see the world and ourselves.

I used to tell myself, “You don’t have the voice to write a book.” That story kept me stuck for years. But when I finally sat down to challenge that belief, I realized it wasn’t true. The act of writing became a way to untangle the narrative I’d been living and replace it with one that empowered me.

Steps to Rewrite Your Story

1. Identify the Story

   • Ask yourself: What’s a belief or story I keep telling myself that’s holding me back? Write it down. Seeing it on paper can bring clarity.

2. Challenge Its Truth

   • Look at the story objectively. Where did it come from? Is it based on fact, or is it rooted in fear or assumption? Ask yourself, What evidence do I have that this story isn’t true?

3. Reframe It

   • Rewrite the story in a way that empowers you. For example:

     • Old Story: “I’m not creative.”

     • New Story: “Creativity is a skill I can nurture, and it grows every time I try.”

4. Practice Your New Narrative

   • Write or say your new story daily. Affirmations can be a powerful way to internalize your reframed beliefs.

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A Reiki Moment

Take a moment to ground yourself before you begin this exercise. If you practice Reiki, place your hands over your solar plexus or heart. Breathe deeply and set an intention, such as: “I release the stories that no longer serve me and invite in the truth of who I am.” If Reiki isn’t part of your practice, simply close your eyes, breathe deeply, and focus on letting go of negativity with each exhale.

Prompts to Help You Reframe Your Story

• What’s one belief I’ve been carrying that no longer serves me?

• If I could rewrite this belief, what would it say?

• How does my new story make me feel?

  
  

Words of Encouragement

Your story isn’t set in stone. Every day, you have the chance to write something new. By challenging the beliefs that hold you back, you create space for growth, possibility, and transformation. Remember, you are the author of your life, and the pen is always in your hands.

Put It Into Practice

Take 10 minutes today to identify one story that’s been holding you back. Use the prompts above to rewrite it in a way that feels empowering.

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