About the author :
Rishi Khanna currently manages investments in public and private markets for his family office TreeForest Capital. He is also Managing Director of the Trimaster Group. Prior to this Rishi was managing director of C&S Electric Limited, which was acquired by Siemens in February 2021.
Of late, Rishi is spending time on his Foundation activities. Scholarships for higher and specialised education is one theme he is exploring. He is also an active member of the YPO’s Delhi chapter.
He can be reached at rishi@treeforest.capital.
In a world rife with conspiracy theories, it’s not just the external events that are subject to wild, unfounded speculations; our inner worlds aren’t immune to them either. Knowingly or unknowingly, many of us concoct conspiracy theories about ourselves. These internal narratives, steeped in self-doubt and fear, can shape our reality, affecting our confidence, decisions, and ultimately, our happiness. Let’s explore how to dismantle these personal conspiracy theories and reclaim our truth.
1. Recognising Your Inner Conspiracies
The first step is to recognise that you might be harbouring conspiracy theories about yourself. These are often rooted in deep-seated insecurities and manifest as beliefs like “I’m not good enough,” “Everyone thinks I’m a failure,” or “I’ll never be successful.” Such thoughts are your mind’s way of trying to make sense of your fears and failures, but they are far from the truth.
2. Understanding the Origins
Our personal conspiracy theories often stem from a combination of past experiences, societal pressures, and the human tendency to find patterns where none exist. Maybe a string of rejections led you to believe that success isn’t in your cards, or the societal standards make you feel inadequate. Understanding the origins of these theories helps in addressing them.
3. Challenging Negative Beliefs
Once you have identified these negative beliefs, challenge them. Are they based on facts or just assumptions? For instance, if you think you’ll never be good at relationships because a few in the past didn’t work out, look at the evidence that contradicts this – the friendships you’ve maintained, the positive feedback you’ve received this may help you in breaking down the conspiracy theory into what it really is – just a theory, not a fact.
It’s not just the external events that are subject to wild, unfounded speculations; our inner worlds aren’t immune to them either.
4. Replacing Conspiracies with Positive Narratives
After dismantling these theories, replace and affirm them with positive narratives about yourself. Instead of “I’m a failure,” tell yourself, “I’m resilient and learning from my experiences.” Affirmations and positive self-talk can reprogram your mind to embrace a more positive self-view.
5. Seeking External Perspectives
Sometimes, we are too entangled in our conspiracy theories to identify and segregate them, putting them in their rightful spot; this is where talking to friends, mentors, or therapists can provide an outside perspective, helping you see the flaws in your self-concentrated narratives.
6. Practicing Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Understanding that everyone has insecurities and faces failures can help in fostering self-compassion. Instead of berating yourself for not meeting certain standards, treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. Easing into the bygone successes and failures to make space for much-needed and equally deserved current growth can lead to unexpected healing.
7. Taking Action
Finally, take action! If your conspiracy theory is that you’re not good at a certain skill, take classes or practice more. Action is a powerful tool in disproving these negative narratives and building you brick by brick.
In conclusion, personal conspiracy theories about oneself can be a major roadblock in the way of your happiness and success. By recognising, challenging, and replacing these negative narratives with positive ones, seeking external perspectives and practising self-compassion, we can break free from the chains of self-doubt. Remember, you are the author of your story – make sure it’s based on truths, not unfounded theories.
To share your articles, blogs, and other written content related to your post-retirement experience, write to us at content@wisdomcircle.com.
