Are These 5 Myths Holding You Back from Success? Here's How to Break Free!
By Monica Hoss
Psychotherapist
Generally, you talk about your goals, dreams, or changes you’d like to make. However just as sometime, some of you believe you can’t. The reasons often sound reasonable at first, but when you dig deeper, they’re not truths, they're myths, they’re self-limiting beliefs.
These myths aren’t about deception in the traditional sense. They’re protective stories you may tell yourselves to avoid discomfort, fear, or uncertainty. But the truth is, while they may feel safe in the moment, they often keep you stuck.
Let’s look at five of the most common myths, and how to shift them.
1. Avoiding Risks Doesn't equal Safety
What’s really happening:
Fear of failure. Fear of judgment. Fear of the unknown.
The truth:
Yes, risk involves uncertainty—but so does staying stuck. Avoiding all risk doesn’t equal safety; sometimes it just means settling. Growth often involves a bit of discomfort, but that doesn’t mean it’s dangerous.
How to break free:
2. It's Never too late to start
Myth2. “It’s too late to start.”
What’s really happening:
Comparison and regret. Belief that time defines worth.
The truth:
It’s never too late to change, learn, or grow. Some people start careers, relationships, or passions in their 40s, 50s, even 70s. Life doesn’t have a set timeline.
How to break free:
Focus on today, not yesterday. Ask: “What’s one thing I can start now that my future self will thank me for?
3. YLeadership Is About Presence, Not Age
Myth3. “It’s too early to lead.”
What’s really happening:
Impostor syndrome. Feeling like you need more experience or permission.
The truth:
Leadership isn’t about age or credentials. It’s about presence, clarity, and care. You don’t need to be the expert to be an example.
How to break free:
Own where you are. Share your journey, not just your wins. You’d be surprised how many people are inspired by your becoming, not just your arriving.
4. Your Brain Is Capable Of Cahnge
Myth 4: “It’s too hard to learn.”
What’s really happening:
Fear of failure. Fear of looking “not smart.” Past negative learning experiences.
The truth:
Everyone struggles with learning at times. But your brain is capable of change—this is called neuroplasticity. Learning is a process, not a performance.
How to break free:
Give yourself permission to be a beginner. Practice curiosity over perfection. Celebrate progress, not just outcomes.
5. You Have Time For What Matters Most
Myth 5. “I’m too busy to build.”
What’s really happening:
Overwhelm, avoidance, or unclear priorities. “Busy” can be a socially accepted way of avoiding deeper work.
The truth:
You may be busy, but are you busy with what matters? Often, we spend time on what feels urgent, not what’s truly important.
How to break free:
Start by identifying your top values. Even 15 minutes a day spent intentionally can move you forward. Progress isn’t about speed. It’s about direction.
Final Thoughts
Your mind is powerful! And sometimes, it protects you in ways that keep you small. These myths aren’t signs of weakness. They’re signs that you’re human. But with awareness, compassion, and intentional action, you can start to let go of the stories that no longer serve you. Step into a fuller, freer version of yourself.
Psychotherapist
Individual, Couple and Family Therapist, and supervisor.
Online & Face -to -Face Therapy sessions
calmtherapy14@gmail.com
Member ID #2822
Level: Fellow Accredited Member
