If you find yourself thinking you’re not good enough or there’s something wrong with you, or believing you’re unlovable, this is for you.
These thoughts aren’t random self-criticism. They’re core beliefs that formed when you were most vulnerable, trying to make sense of a difficult world.
Throughout childhood we tried to make sense of our world. Our brains formed hypotheses. Our minds made mini models of the way life works. We used numerous reference experiences – memories of incidents that happened – to build an overall picture of our environment.
When our world was negative, we created negative mental maps.
These core beliefs are central to how we think and feel, but what’s most significant is that many of them are hidden from us. They’re buried deep within our subconscious, formed at such an early age that they often aren’t within reach of our conscious awareness.
Common core beliefs that result from difficult childhoods include “I am not good enough,” “There is something wrong with me,” “I am unlovable,” “Other people will not love me,” “I cannot trust other people,” and “The world is dangerous.”
These beliefs feel absolutely true because they formed so early and act as a mental filter through which we see and interpret our environment. When we wake in the morning, we just know who we are. In the same way, we don’t tend to question our core beliefs because our minds have already accepted them as self-evidently true.
But here’s what’s important to understand: these beliefs formed as your young mind tried to protect you and make sense of circumstances that were beyond your control. They were your brain’s attempt to create safety in an unsafe environment.
Recognizing these core beliefs is the first step to changing them. When we can identify these deep patterns, we can begin to challenge them with evidence and replace them with more positive beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world.
You deserve to see yourself clearly, not through the lens of childhood survival strategies.
Continue your healing journey with Toxic by Jackie Poet a compassionate guide to understanding and overcoming the lasting effects of childhood trauma.
