We all have one.  A story.  Good or bad, happy or sad… we all have a life story that tells the path we have taken and the experiences we have been through.  But often, we can become attached to these stories – whether we actually want to or not.

Somewhere along the way, we get used to the patterns in our life.  For instance, if you struggle with anxiety or an addiction… even though it may be a negative aspect of your life, you are familiar with it.  It’s comfortable, it’s expected and it’s your “normal.”

The same can be said for the people in your life.

If your mother has a history of being overbearing and condescending, then that is what you become accustomed to and you expect her to continue to fulfill that “role,” whether it’s consciously or not.

But what if you want to change your story?

Is it possible to break out of your old story and start writing a new one?

YES.

The key is recognizing that you’re stuck in your old story in the first place.  Once you recognize the old beliefs you are carrying around – and the emotions and outcomes these beliefs cause – you can work on changing them.  No matter what you’ve been through, you always have the opportunity to turn things around.  And once you realize that your life is in your control, the turn can happen quickly.

So how do you change your story?

*Let yourself process what  has happened in your past.  Don’t “stuff” your feelings deep down inside… acknowledge them, feel them, and then let them go.  Give yourself permission to release them.

*Replace the lies you used to believe with new truths.  If you’ve always told yourself, “I’m unreliable” or “I’ll always be a mess” and you want to change that, change the words you speak to yourself!  Whenever the old lies start to creep into your head, don’t acknowledge them and meditate on them.  Simply let them pass through your mind and replace them with new truths – “I extend myself grace” or “I am becoming more reliable.”

*Do not worry about the actions of other people in your life.  You cannot change someone else’s behavior.  Instead focus on changing your own behavior and your own beliefs, and be amazed at how others’ reactions toward you will change as well!

It is never too late to change your story.  So what are you waiting for?  Go ahead and start writing a new future.  The pen is in your hand!