How to Overcome Your Inhibitions
Part 4 of The 100X Leader
Last week I had a conversation with a leader about why he could do something that he has told himself that cannot happen. The idea is centered on what a person can or cannot do, whether they are inhibited or prohibited.
Being prohibited is to be told you cannot do something by someone else with authority.
Being inhibited is you telling yourself that you cannot do something.
Have you ever heard someone say, “Well I tried, but they told me that we couldn’t.” Who is “They?” Most people think they are prohibited when they are actually inhibited. A clear example of this happened when one of our teammates didn’t do something I thought we had all agreed to be done. When I asked why they didn’t finish it the answer was, “I thought you wouldn’t want us to do that.” This employee thought they were prohibited when they were actually inhibited out of fear of messing up the project.
I find that the majority of people are inhibited rather than prohibited. At times this can create a victim mentality that can limit people dramatically. Here is how you can ensure you are not inhibiting yourself.
- First, ask clarifying questions of others to see if you are truly prohibited from performing a task.
- Second, if you are not sure, ask another question until you get absolute clarity. Take initiative.
- Third, if you find that you are inhibiting yourself then find out why. Are you afraid? Are you nervous of the other person?
- Finally, think about the ramifications of you not doing something that you should because you are inhibiting yourself.
To become a 100X leader you must lead yourself well with your mindset. Refuse to think of yourself with a victim mentality. Rise above your own fears and begin to take initiative where you normally would inhibit. You will be glad you did.
How to Overcome Inhibition
Inhibition can be a natural default for many. At times all of us can be inhibited to act on the dreams and visions that for a greater future. However, left untouched inhibition can be a dangerous reality. To be inhibited is to be limited and limited is never a way to live or lead.
I have told myself that I can’t do certain things because of what a certain few people might think. And the thought of what others think can seriously rob us of amazing feats. That is ludicrous. The mission and message inside us is much bigger than the impression of a few people.
Are you inhibited? If so, where are you limiting yourself?
What are your current limitations? (Money, opportunity, skills, etc.)
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Ask yourself which of these are inhibitions or prohibitions. Then ask yourself what the cost is for allowing these inhibitions to be in your life. Usually, it is in opportunity cost, meaning that because you are self-limiting you are costing yourself time, freedom or money.
An example of this is the person who desperately wants to start their own business, but was afraid of losing the benefits his current company offered in the job that he despises. That is an inhibition, not a prohibition. He was self-limiting because of $1000 per month.
What is your plan to unshackle yourself from your own limits? Are you inhibiting yourself from your desired goals? If you are, then you are a victim to yourself. The fear in you is keeping you from the best in you.
To become a 100X Leader then you must overcome the issues that are keeping you down.
Learn more at www.100xleader.com.
