#12 - 8/01/2024
 

Have You Been Born into Things? Understanding How Your Upbringing Shapes You and Embracing the Power to Redefine Your Path

Lately, I've been reflecting on a topic that's deeply connected to the themes I explore in my writing: the factors that shape our beliefs and how they evolve over time. Specifically, I’ve become fascinated by the differences in the belief systems we inherit and how they impact our lives. Why do some people grow up with one belief and continue to hold onto it, while others evolve into new viewpoints?

The Power of Practice and Belief

One concept that resonates with me is this: “If you don’t practice what you believe, what you believe becomes your practice.” This simple yet profound statement speaks to the idea that our actions—whether we’re aware of them or not—play a major role in shaping our belief systems.

For example, you may have been born into a particular religion, but as you mature, your worldview changes. While some people continue to follow the teachings of their childhood, others question or even abandon them. This shift is often driven by a deeper, more personal connection to beliefs that align with our evolving sense of self.

The Subconscious Mind: Programming from Childhood

Did you know that there are anywhere between 4,300 and 10,000 world religions? Yet, just four of them make up 90% of the world’s belief systems. While religion is a major factor, this concept extends far beyond spiritual matters. Whether it's religion, politics, or our personal habits, much of our belief system is programmed in childhood.

By age seven, many of us have already internalized beliefs, often influenced by negative experiences, that stay with us unless we actively challenge them. This early programming is known as domestication—the process by which we become conditioned by the environment and people around us. It's a concept that goes beyond religion and touches on how we relate to the world as a whole. Even our political affiliations and personal habits are shaped by this early programming.

Re-evaluating Your Political Beliefs

Taking the concept of domestication a step further, have you ever stopped to question your political beliefs? Perhaps you were raised in a family that always voted a certain way. But, over time, your views have shifted. When was the last time you looked at your voter’s registration card and asked yourself: "Do my beliefs still align with the party I represent?"

This is an important self-reflection, especially as we approach the process of voting. We should take the time to evaluate whether our actions align with the morals and values of the political parties we identify with. It might be time to reconsider not just what you believe, but who you truly are before making a decision that could affect the future.

Midlife: A Time to Reassess What You've Been Told

The journey of self-discovery often hits its peak in midlife, a time when many of us begin questioning everything we’ve been told about how life “should” be.

Maybe you were raised with the belief that success means working hard, accepting whatever life gives you, and moving forward. But what if you discovered that you could work smarter, not harder? Perhaps you were taught that manual labor was the key to financial success, yet now you see the value in using your mind, creativity, or technology to achieve your goals.

As we approach our 40s and 50s, it’s common to reach a point where we look back and ask: "Am I living life the way I was told to, or am I following my own path?" The beauty of this stage of life is that it offers us the opportunity to break free from outdated beliefs and design a life that's truly our own.

You Are Not Defined by Your Origins

No matter what you were born into, who you’ve grown into is entirely up to you. Whether it's religion, politics, or career, you have the power to redefine your beliefs and your life. Just because you were raised to believe one thing doesn’t mean you have to carry that belief forever.

Conclusion: The Power of Personal Growth

Remember, your beliefs don't have to define you. As you continue to grow and evolve, make sure your beliefs reflect your true self, not just what you've been taught to believe. Take the time to question, explore, and challenge the beliefs that no longer serve you. This is the path to true self-discovery and empowerment.

From the author:

To whomever you are, I write that this publication will encourage you to subscribe and receive updates as we dive into the thirteen successful principles to move life from a roller coaster to less than a ripple. And remember, doing so will be worth your wage.

I look forward to reading your comments below.


Todd

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