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From Limiting Beliefs to Core Values: Navigating the Healing Journey

Writer's picture: Tiffanie TrudeauTiffanie Trudeau


What you see matters. So does where you're going
What you see matters. So does where you're going

Beliefs and values are foundational aspects of how we understand and navigate the world, but they serve different purposes. Beliefs are the assumptions and ideas we hold to be true about ourselves, others, and the world around us. They are cognitive and subjective, shaping how we interpret reality and make sense of our experiences. Values, on the other hand, are deeply held principles that define and reflect what we consider important and meaningful. They are tied to our sense of purpose and identity and act as a moral compass, guiding our behavior, decisions, and interactions with others.

In short, beliefs are about what we think is true, while values are about what we find meaningful or important.


Using the analogy of a lens and a compass, beliefs serve as a lens through which we perceive and interpret the world. This lens shapes how we process experiences, understand relationships, and make sense of challenges. However, the lens is not always clear—it can be tinted, clouded, or distorted by adverse or traumatic experiences. Trauma, for instance, can lead to beliefs rooted in fear, unworthiness, or mistrust, which, in turn, shape how we engage with others and respond to life’s changes, setbacks, and disappointments. For example, a belief such as “People can’t be trusted” may develop after repeated betrayals or violations of trust. While this belief is rooted in valid experiences and carries the positive intent of offering temporary emotional protection, it can also isolate us and hinder our ability to form meaningful connections.


In contrast, values act as a compass, guiding us toward what we find meaningful and important. They keep us aligned with our core identity and purpose, even when the path is unclear. Identifying and honoring our values plays a vital role in the healing process because values connect us to our authentic selves. For example, someone healing from a traumatic relationship may value connection and trust but struggle to believe it’s possible. By identifying this value and working to align their actions with it—such as seeking healthy relationships—they can begin to rewrite limiting narratives, challenge fear-based beliefs, and experience corrective relational interactions.


Beliefs and values are closely intertwined, as our beliefs often support our values, and our values can shape the beliefs we adopt. However, the distinction between the two lies in malleability and stability. Malleability is the ability for something to be shaped, altered, or adapted, making it especially relevant to beliefs. Our thoughts, assumptions, and convictions can either be rigid and unyielding or flexible and open to change. When beliefs are rigid, we may become defensive when they are challenged and more susceptible to confirmation bias, seeking only information that reinforces what we already think. In contrast, flexible beliefs allow us to question their validity, recognize when they no longer serve us, and embrace new, healthier perspectives. This process requires curiosity, openness, and the courage to step outside of familiar patterns.


Beliefs and values are also connected through the concepts of situational influence and stability. Beliefs are often more situational because they are shaped by specific experiences, environments, or contexts. In contrast, values are typically more stable, reflecting our deeply held principles and core identity. While beliefs can shift with new evidence or changing circumstances, values remain steady, acting as a compass that guides long-term decisions and behavior.


Consider the belief “Failure is not an option.” At its best, this belief can be adaptive, motivating us to strive for excellence and persevere in difficult situations. It reflects a refusal to give up, which can be empowering. However, it can also be limiting, creating a rigid mindset where mistakes are seen as catastrophes rather than opportunities for growth. It can prevent us from taking action due to fear of failure, leading to burnout, avoidance, procrastination, perfectionism, and even depression. When failure is viewed as unacceptable, it fosters a fixed, outcome-driven mindset, making it difficult to celebrate small wins or acknowledge progress. This belief often lacks the nuance of resilience or perseverance, which focus on enduring challenges, learning from setbacks, and continuing forward without equating failure with personal inadequacy.


Valuing resilience or perseverance, on the other hand, shifts the focus to the process, encourages a growth mindset, and reframes setbacks as opportunities for self-discovery and creativity.

By examining the lens through which we see the world (our beliefs) and aligning our actions with our inner compass (our values), we can break free from limiting patterns. For instance, replacing the belief “I’m not good enough” with values of humility and compassion allows us to recognize our limitations while embracing kindness and understanding as we move toward growth. This shift fosters emotional healing and encourages healthier relationships—with ourselves and others.


In this way, understanding and integrating our beliefs and values helps us heal, rebuild, and create a life that reflects our authentic selves.


Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash


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