How to Fix a Broken Mindset (Simple STEPS You Can Follow)

We all have times when we’re not feeling 100%.

We might feel down, hopeless, and helpless. Maybe we can’t see a way out of our situation. Or, we may feel like everything we’ve tried has failed.

It can be difficult to find or see the silver lining when we’re in this place.

Or even find a way to improve our mindset.

This to me is a broken mindset. A broken mindset can be caused by many things, such as a traumatic event, continuous stress, or even self-doubt.

If you’re experiencing a broken mindset, know you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is hope.

You can take steps to start building yourself back up, heal, and move on with your life.

Keep reading if you want to learn how to fix a broken mindset.

What is a “Broken Mindset?”

A broken mindset is a fixed way of thinking that limits your ability to see possibilities, take risks and reach your full potential.

It’s often the result of negative experiences or messages you’ve received in the past. Like trauma, abuse, neglect, or any number of other experiences.

How Do You Know If You Have a Broken Mindset?

You probably already know what it feels like to have a broken mindset.

For example, if you’ve ever felt like you’re in a place where you can’t seem to get yourself out no matter how hard you try. And wherever we go, whatever we do, that negative voice inside our head always tells you you’re not good enough.

That’s a sign of a broken mindset.

Here are a few other signs that indicate you may have a broken mindset:

  • You’re constantly second-guessing yourself. You doubt your abilities and wonder if you’re cut out for success.
  • You have a hard time accepting compliments. You feel like you don’t deserve praise or positive feedback.
  • You’re your own worst critic. You’re harder on yourself than anyone else, and you always seem to find fault in your performance.
  • You get defensive when receiving constructive feedback. Instead of seeing it as an opportunity to improve, you take it as a personal attack.
  • You have a negative outlook. You see the glass as half empty instead of half full, and you’re quick to point out all the ways things could go wrong.
  • You’re stuck in your comfort zone. Afraid to take risks or try new things, even if it means missing out on opportunities.

You likely have a broken mindset if you can relate to any of these signs.

How to Fix a Broken Mindset

Breaking free from a toxic cycle to live life the way you want will take time and effort.

But it’s 100% possible!

Fixing a Broken Mindset

Here are seven steps anyone can take to start fixing their broken mindset:

Step 1: Acknowledge You Have a Problem

The first step is admitting you have a problem. Because once you’ve identified that your mindset is broken, you can begin taking steps to fix it.

You might be in denial about your toxic thoughts and behaviours, but it’s important to acknowledge them before you can start to change.

Step 2: Identify The Problem

Once you’ve acknowledged you have a problem, you want to identify what, specifically, is causing your broken mindset.

The problem could be anything from negative self-talk to a lack of confidence.

Or even events that happened to you while you were growing up. For example, you might have been told you’re not good enough or that you’ll never amount to anything.

Make a list of all the things contributing to your broken mindset. The list will help you figure out what needs to be addressed. And, if you’re not sure what the problem is, it’ll at least give you a starting point.

Step 3: Identify Your Roadblocks

The next step is to identify your roadblocks. These are the things that are preventing you from fixing your mindset.

Roadblocks can be anything from negative thinking patterns to unhealthy behaviours.

For example, if you’re constantly telling yourself you’re not good enough, that’s a roadblock. Or if you’re using drugs or alcohol to cope with your problems, that’s a roadblock too.

Roadblocks can also be external, like people, toxic relationships or a hostile work environment. You can’t avoid, fix, or go through roadblocks if you don’t take some time to identify them first.

Then…

Step 4: Take Action To Improve Your Life

Now that you’ve identified your problem and roadblocks, it’s time to take action. This is where the real work begins.

You can do many things to start fixing your mindset, but it will likely require some trial and error to find what works best for you.

Some things you might want to try include:

  • Challenging your negative thoughts and beliefs
  • Creating new habits that are sustainable will lead you to success
  • Exposing yourself to new experiences
  • Building healthy coping mechanisms

These are just a few ideas, but there are endless possibilities when taking action. But, the most important thing is that you start somewhere and don’t stop until you see results.

Monitor your progress and document your actions until you see the desired change you’d like.

Step 5: Practice Self-Compassion

One of the best things you can do for yourself on this journey is to practice self-compassion.

This means being kind and understanding towards yourself, even when you make mistakes. It also means recognising your worth and value, regardless of your accomplishments or failures.

Building self-compassion will help you break free from the negative thoughts and behaviours holding you back. Start by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would show to a friend.

And whenever you make a mistake, cut yourself some slack. We all make mistakes. It’s part of being human.

Step 6: Seek Help From Others (Hire a Professional or Talk With Someone You Trust)

Fixing a broken mindset is not something you have to do alone.

Seeking help from others is an essential part of the process.

If you’re struggling to progress on your own, consider hiring a professional or talking with someone you trust.

For example:

  • Therapists
  • Life coaches
  • Your mentor or someone you look up to
  • A friend or family member

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or that you can’t do it on your own. It just means you’re smart enough to know when you need a little extra support.

Change takes time, effort, and patience.

Step 7: Be Patient and Stick With It – Nothing Happens Overnight

Your mindset didn’t become broken overnight, so it won’t be fixed overnight either.

Don’t get discouraged if and when you don’t see the results you’re looking for right away. The most important thing you can do is to keep going.

Even when it feels like you’re not making any progress, every step you take is one step closer to fixing your mindset. And eventually, with enough time and effort, you will get there. Just don’t give up.

The Effects of Having a Broken Mindset

A broken mindset can have a profound effect on your life.

It can hold you back from reaching your full potential and achieving your dreams. It’s incredibly damaging, both mentally and emotionally.

A broken mindset causes you to doubt yourself, feel unworthy, and always think you’re not good enough. These feelings can lead to isolation, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Issues that can also lead to physical health problems like:

  • Heart Disease
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes

And more.

This is why it’s important to take action and fix a broken mindset as soon as possible.

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