None of us want to ponder the “what-ifs” when we look back on our lives and realize that fear held us back and limited us from reaching our full potential.

We are all capable of far more than we currently realize. The truth is, our mindsets can be the biggest barrier to building a better life because they can limit us to what we think is possible. Many experts agree that our thoughts shape much of our reality and confirm our adopted beliefs.

Research has shown that consistently thinking the same thoughts builds neurological pathways in the brain that make it easier and simpler to think and believe those same thoughts again, further embedding that way of thinking into our minds. When we trust the stories our minds are telling us, our actions begin to reflect these ideas, and thus, we shape the life that our mind believes is either attainable or impossible.

How the Brain Reacts When You Start Thinking Differently
So how can we use this knowledge to lead a happier and more fulfilling life? We can start by adopting a “no-limits” mindset and practice thinking differently. When we consistently tell ourselves something can’t be done or we can’t do it, our brains turn off from processing solutions. This inhibits us from exploring new possibilities or from creating potential solutions.

When we start to think differently—like adopting a “no-limits” mindset—our brains start to enter into action mode and become open to possibilities we may not have previously considered. This means that instead of just accepting that something can’t be done, our brains will start looking for solutions as opposed to excuses or barriers. We start to see things in a different light and look at them with a more optimistic attitude, which makes us more open-minded. This mindset shift gives us the courage to take on challenges head-on instead of shying away from them. We build confidence as we realize we are doing more than what we thought possible—which leads us down paths of self-discovery, personal growth, and success.

Living Without Limits
Developing a “no-limits” mindset allows us to dream bigger than ever before. We remove any subconscious limitations that could be limiting our potential for success by simply believing that anything is possible with enough hard work and dedication. The more we think this way, the more our brain solidifies it into our thinking, and soon we start living it out.

Build Confidence Through Action
Simply taking action builds confidence in yourself because it shows that even though there was a challenge ahead of you—you went for it anyway! Think about how great it feels when something works out exactly as planned, then use this feeling as motivation the next time something seems too difficult to tackle first-hand.

A “no-limits” mindset leads to growth and opportunities both within ourselves and outside in the world around us; it opens up possibilities we may never have considered before and helps us realize our true potential. If we keep focusing on solutions instead of excuses, our growth will not cease. Soon enough, the life that we envisioned will become a reality, and when looking back, there won’t be much to regret.