Many of us don’t know we have self-limiting thoughts. It can be as simple as not doing something because you think you’re not good enough, not wearing what you think is comfortable because you fear what others think about you, or not dreaming big enough because you think you won’t be able to reach it anyway. Below, six women open up about self-limiting thoughts.
Emma Watson on going with the flow:
“Don’t feel stupid if you don’t like what everyone else pretends to love."
With a strong personality and a luminous acting career, Emma Watson is one of the most celebrated artists and equality advocates of our time. Despite the many characters and roles she’s had to play, she has always reminded young women to stay true to themselves
Hidilyn Diaz on limiting your own dreams:
“Nung una kasi nung bata ako, mahirap kami. I want them to know that everyone, mapamahirap, matanda, bata, lahat tayo puwedeng mangarap at kung gugustuhin, walang imposible.”
After winning silver at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz reminded everyone, no matter their background, of the importance of dreaming big.
Iza Calzado on feeling insecure about your body:
“It was only in the last few years that I slowly started coming to terms with my body and not letting what other people say about it stop me from living my best life. We are all worthy of hitting the beach no matter our size or shape. Remember that.”
Feeling insecure about our bodies is something we can all relate to, especially in the time of Instagram #fitspiration. Despite overcoming obesity in her early twenties, actress Iza Calzado admitted that she still gets insecure about her body, but it’s a mental battle that she’s proud of winning every time
Mary Kom on doubting your strength:
“Don’t let anyone tell you you’re weak because you’re a woman.”
Olympic boxer Mary Kom from India was the first female boxer to win a medal in six boxing championships. As someone who’s excelled in a male-dominated industry, she is best quoted for reminding women of their strength.
Amelia Earhart on worrying about risks:
“Decide whether or not the goal is worth the risks involved. If it is, stop worrying.”
While known to have disappeared on a solo flight across the Pacific Ocean, Amelia Earhart achieved new heights in aviation as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
Beyonce on indulging in setbacks:
“I only allow myself one day to feel sorry for myself. People who complain really get on my nerves. When I’m not feeling my best I ask myself, 'What are you gonna do about it?' I use the negativity to fuel the transformation into a better me."
A woman of many hats, Beyonce’s core brand lies in empowerment—from championing the power of women and girls to challenging traditional beauty norms. This is no surprise as she has applied the same call of inner strength in her personal life