Many of us walk through life holding onto beliefs we’ve had since childhood—ideas about who we are, what we’re capable of, or how life “should” work. These beliefs can shape everything, from our decisions, political views, to our self-image. But what if these beliefs, deeply embedded in our subconscious, no longer serve us? What if we are starting to question our own beliefs? In my most recent reads, Dan Sullivan, in his thought-provoking book, Think About Your Thinking, introduced me to the idea of “elevated thinking,” which encourages us to pause, step back, and challenge our assumptions and old beliefs.
What is Elevated Thinking?
Elevated thinking is a practice of observing our thoughts from a higher vantage point. Instead of being carried away by habitual patterns, we learn to become curious about them. Sullivan calls us to “think about our thinking” by not taking every thought at face value. This level of reflection helps us see our thinking as separate from our identity, allowing us to change and adapt as needed. It’s like looking at the story we’ve written about ourselves and realizing we have the power to edit it. Yes, at any age! We can start questioning any old belief and decide we want to believe something different.
Why Question Our Beliefs?
Beliefs are powerful, but they’re often rooted in past experiences rather than current realities. They form our inner “rules” and influence how we interpret everything around us. For example, if you grew up with the belief that “money is hard to come by,” it can influence financial decisions, career choices, and even your sense of self-worth. Elevated thinking helps us examine whether these beliefs that are still valid or if they’re limiting us from living the life we want. Or, maybe you have a belief that your not an outdoors person and always have been and now you want to think about why this is.
Steps to Practicing Elevated Thinking
1. Identify the Belief
The first step to elevated thinking is to identify a belief you want to question. This could be a long-held belief that has been passed down through family, culture, or past experiences. Write it down and make it as specific as possible.
2. Ask Where It Came From
Reflect on the origin of the belief. Did it come from family teachings? Was it based on a significant event in your life? Sometimes understanding the origin can help us see that it may no longer be relevant. I did this with my political views. Where did it come from? Was it from my parents?
3. Challenge Its Validity
Here’s where the magic of elevated thinking happens. Ask yourself: Is this belief absolutely true? What evidence do you have to support it, and what evidence exists that contradicts it? Imagine a scenario where the belief isn’t true. Often, you’ll find that many of these beliefs are based on incomplete or outdated information.
4. Imagine an Alternative Belief
Now, try re-framing this belief in a way that’s supportive rather than limiting. Instead of “money is hard to come by,” try “money is a resource that I am capable of earning.” This new belief may not feel natural at first, but repeating it can help it become part of your mental framework. Or, “the park across the street is beautiful and I am capable of taking weekly walks.
5. Experiment with the New Belief
Put your new belief into practice in small ways. If your old belief made you avoid certain actions, take a small step in the opposite direction. Notice how you feel, and use this feedback to reinforce the new belief.
The Benefits of Elevated Thinking
The more you practice elevated thinking, the easier it becomes to adapt your beliefs to better serve your goals and aspirations. As you release limiting beliefs, you may find that life becomes more open to opportunities and personal growth. Elevated thinking can empower you to live with greater freedom, creativity, and resilience.
Final Thoughts
Dan Sullivan’s concept of elevated thinking reminds us that we have the power to question, adjust, and even rewrite our own narratives. With a curious mind and an open heart, we can transform beliefs that once held us back into beliefs that propel us forward. Embracing elevated thinking is an act of self-compassion, giving ourselves permission to evolve with time, perspective, and purpose. So, what old belief are you ready to question today?
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