Forums

Guidance, support and wisdom to benefit and maximize the life and longevity of animals.

VetVine Client Care

Posted On Nov 18, 2015

Updated On Jun 25, 2025

What I Believe. What Do You Believe?

Wellness Wisdom

Originally contributed by Gwen Pettit, PT, PCC, MA, MS

What do I believe? 

This is a question that many of us don't take enough time to think about. We get busy -  doing things and reacting to events and situations as they occur. There is a lot of value in having clarity in your core values and in that which you believe. Let me explain.

Our internal beliefs guide our daily decisions, even when we don’t think about them. If I maintain a core belief that working harder is the best way to get ahead, then I work long hours without thinking about it. That belief, in the value of hard work, may override my attention to maintaining a balanced life outside of work. While working hard is admirable and something to respect, overdoing it and not maintaing a work-life balance is not sustainable or healthy. Therefore, this example (belief about working harder) may need to be redefined or amended to ensure that I don't overdo it.

Where do beliefs come from?

Our beliefs evolve from our life experiences and information gathered from other people. Some of our beliefs may change because of new experiences and others from repeatedly hearing information that may or may not be accurate. Beliefs built from a foundation of the past may no longer be relevant or helpful in the present. Our beliefs can change over time. Can you think of some beliefs from childhood that are not useful to you today?

If you are not in touch with your core beliefs and values, how do you start to pay attention? My favorite method is to use a journal. A journal can help you to realize what is or is not working in your life, and will provide you ideas on where you can make positive changes.

Keeping a journal can increase your awareness of how your beliefs are regularly impacting your actions.

If those beliefs aren't serving you well, then sorting through them may be in order. To achieve that you must open yourself up to some self-examination as well as perspectives and view points of others. Be curious. Ask questions. Understand that there are a variety of perspectives on any given subject. Gather all the knowledge that you can. Then make decisions based on your own conclusions. 

A basic set of operating beliefs can ease decision making. Your actions and decisions feel right to you when you are operating based on your beliefs. If you are uncomfortable about making a decision, explore what is really bothering you. Here are a few of my basic beliefs.

  • I believe that I am responsible for my own happiness
  • I believe that it is my responsibility to speak up for my own needs and concerns
  • I believe in treating other people with kindness and respect 
  • I believe that self care is critical to personal development and professional growth

I challenge you to create your own list of beliefs - then reflect on how they guide your actions. Ask yourself how your beliefs serve you. Where do they hinder or create obstacles for you? Keep the beliefs that help you and toss the old ones that just get in your way.