The Stories We Tell Ourselves
There’s a voice inside each of us—a narrator, quietly scripting the story of who we are. Often, this voice isn’t kind. It reminds us of our past failures, our flaws, our moments of fear and shame. It tells us we’re not good enough, not ready, or not worthy.
I want to tell you something that may shift your perspective entirely: You are not your past.
Your past is not a prison. It is a portal. And the moment you stop treating it like a verdict and start treating it like a lesson, your story begins to change.
Where the Inner Narrative Comes From
Most of our internal dialogue is shaped by experiences in childhood, social conditioning, trauma, and repeated patterns. These experiences write a script that runs on loop:
- “I always mess things up.”
- “No one really understands me.”
- “I’m not the kind of person who succeeds.”
These aren’t facts. They’re beliefs—ones that can be rewritten.
According to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), our thoughts determine our emotions and behaviors. So if we change the narrative, we change our emotional experience—and ultimately, our actions and results.
How I Rewrote My Own Story
Years ago, I believed I had to fit into the mold that others created for me. I was the obedient student, the logical science graduate, the responsible provider. And yet, something in me knew I was meant to impact minds.
The turning point came when I asked myself:
“What if the story I’ve been living isn’t mine? What if I can write a new one?”
That question unlocked my journey into training, counseling, and writing. Today, through MindShift Workshops and books like You Are Money, I help people challenge their mental scripts—and rewrite them with intention.
Steps to Reprogram Your Inner Narrative
1. Identify the Script
Pay attention to recurring thoughts. Write them down. Are they empowering or limiting?
Example: “I always fail at relationships.”
2. Question the Origin
Ask: Where did this belief come from? Is it from a parent, teacher, past mistake?
Truth: One relationship ending doesn’t define your worth or future.
3. Reframe the Belief
Transform the thought into something grounded in growth.
New narrative: “I am learning to love and be loved in healthier ways.”
4. Reinforce the New Story
Use repetition. Tools like the Daily Muse Journal and Goal Cards can help anchor these beliefs through writing and reflection.
Tip: Speak your new narrative aloud every morning. Your brain learns through repetition.
5. Surround Yourself with Mirrors
Be around people who reflect your potential—not your past. Your environment matters.
Science Supports Your Power to Change
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to form new connections—even into adulthood. This means your brain is wired for transformation.
Each time you challenge an old belief and replace it with a new one, you’re physically reshaping your neural network.
You Are the Author Now
The most powerful truth I’ve learned is this: You can be the author of your own identity.
You don’t have to be the fearful child, the misunderstood teenager, the struggling adult. You can be the grounded, focused, thriving soul you were always meant to be.
One new sentence. One fresh page. That’s how every powerful story begins.
If your past is a chapter, let today be your turning point.
With clarity and compassion,
Dr. Sajeev Dev
