Depression is an often misunderstood mental health disorder that impacts millions globally. It's more than…

Core beliefs are the fundamental assumptions and convictions that shape our perceptions, emotions, and behaviours. These deeply ingrained beliefs influence how we view ourselves, others, and the world around us. While core beliefs can be empowering, they can also be limiting.
Formed during early childhood – typically between birth and the age of seven – core beliefs are created in the subconscious mind, largely based on the influence of those around us. As we grow and develop our own experiences, however, we have the ability to reshape these beliefs, allowing us to make conscious choices and adopt new perspectives.
How Core Beliefs Impact Us
Core beliefs are powerful. Positive beliefs, such as “I am lovable and deserving of respect and happiness,” can foster self-esteem and emotional well-being. Negative beliefs, on the other hand, can be deeply detrimental, distorting our thoughts, perceptions, and behaviours. They can create cognitive errors, perpetuating cycles of anxiety and other mental health challenges.
For instance, a belief like “I’m not good enough” can trigger anxious thoughts and lead to behaviours that reinforce feelings of inadequacy. Understanding and changing these beliefs is essential for improving mental health and overall quality of life.
The Process of Changing Core Beliefs
Changing core beliefs can be challenging, but it is entirely possible through neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections. Here’s a step-by-step process for transforming core beliefs:
- Awareness and Identification
Recognize the core belief you want to change and understand how it impacts your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.- Example: If you believe “I’m not good enough,” notice when and how this thought arises in your daily life.
- Challenging and Reframing
Question the validity of the belief. Ask yourself: Is this belief true? Is there evidence to support it? Replace it with a more balanced and empowering belief.- Example: Reframe “I’m not good enough” into “Every day, I am learning and improving.”
- Consistency and Repetition
Reinforce the new belief through consistent practice. Use affirmations, journaling, and regular reminders to solidify the new belief.- Neural pathways strengthen with repetition, especially when positive emotions like excitement are attached to the new belief.
- Behavioural Alignment
Take small, deliberate actions that align with the new belief.- Example: To adopt the belief “I am confident,” practice confident behaviours, engage with supportive individuals, and avoid environments that trigger old, negative patterns.
How Long Does It Take to Change Core Beliefs?
Research suggests that forming new neural pathways takes consistent effort over 21 to 90 days. However, for deeply rooted beliefs, the process may take up to six months.
Be Patient and Kind to Yourself
Changing core beliefs is a journey, not an overnight transformation. With persistence, self-compassion, and consistent effort, you can reshape your mindset and create lasting, positive change.
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