Is A "Thinking Small Mindset" Holding You Back"?
Hello again!
Let’s talk about something that affects more people than they’d like to admit – the “thinking small” mindset. You know the one: it’s that inner voice that says, “Maybe that’s too big of a goal,” or “Stay safe; don’t risk it.” Sound familiar?
This mindset can be a quiet killer of dreams, especially for high achievers in fields like accounting, finance, and law, where the stakes are high and the expectations even higher.
How the “Thinking Small” Mindset Shows Up A 2019 study from Stanford found that people with a fixed mindset (believing they have limited abilities) tend to set smaller goals and shy away from risks. And get this – those beliefs can actually shrink brain activity in areas associated with learning and risk-taking. So it’s not just a mental game; it’s biological too.
When you’re constantly “thinking small,” you end up aiming low, taking fewer risks, and staying in your comfort zone. While that might feel safe, it comes at a big cost: you miss out on opportunities for growth, innovation, and, ultimately, success.
3 Tips to Overcome the “Thinking Small” Mindset Want to start thinking bigger? Here are three ways to begin:
  1. Identify Limiting Beliefs 🚧 – Get curious about those beliefs that say “I’m not ready” or “That’s not for me.” These thoughts often come from past experiences or fear of the unknown. Challenge these beliefs by asking, What if I were ready?
  2. Embrace Failure as Feedback 💡 – It’s natural to avoid risks because of the possibility of failure. But here’s the thing: failure is feedback. Start seeing mistakes as learning opportunities instead of proof that you’re “not good enough.” This shift in perspective is a game-changer.
  3. Visualize Your “Bigger Self” 👓 – Take a few minutes each day to visualize yourself achieving something big. Neuroscience shows that visualization activates the same brain regions as actually doing the task, which helps build confidence. Picture yourself speaking up in that meeting, leading that project, or taking on a new role. See it, believe it, and you’ll start to make it real.
On November 13th, we’ll explore these strategies in-depth. I’ll walk you through tools and techniques to go from “thinking small” to unleashing the full potential that’s been waiting just under the surface.

This Free Online Masterclass is called "Master Your Mind : Overcome Self Sabotage To Lead WIth Confidence" 
You can use this link to register now. https://waynedonnelly.com/landing/master-your-mind

Let’s break free from self-sabotage and embrace the kind of leadership that reflects your true abilities.
Cheers to a bigger future, 
Wayne :)

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