Dave Hollis’ book “Get out of your own way” targets individuals seeking a more meaningful life who may have lost sight of their purpose but desire to realize their full potential for the sake of their loved ones. Our ability to believe and act on our desires lies within our control and depends on our choices. Hollis highlights several lies that we must discontinue believing, including:

I know what you have been through: We can’t know what others have been through especially the people who are different from us, until we connect with them and make effort to know them better. Many face stereotypes based on appearance, religion, or beliefs. Forming judgments or opinions without spending time with them and grasping their experiences is unjust. Actively seek opportunities to engage with those with differing thoughts or beliefs can transform unfamiliarity into empathy through connection. Diverse experiences act as catalysts for varied solutions to problems, highlighting the value in appreciating our differences. Together, these distinct experiences contribute to the beauty and innovation that enrich our lives.

Things that are possible for others aren’t possible for me: Your potential is solely defined by your own choices and actions. Allowing external factors to dictate our worth or aspirations confines us. These false beliefs we embrace restrain us, convincing us they’re unchangeable truths that shape our reality.

You create the limits for what’s possible in your life. You decide. You choose that reality. You. Choose. That. Reality.

Dave Hollis

When we believe in lies about ourselves, we rob ourselves. Self-awareness is critical to be able to examine what it is we believe and why we believe. It empowers us to shape our reality consciously, freeing ourselves from the limiting lies we’ve accepted, such as “I can’t excel like them” or “I’m not capable of that job.” These self-imposed limitations often stem from the fear of judgment or straying from societal norms.

I need to parent like my parents: Question yourself “Why you are the way you are?” and spend some time to understand the answer. Be intentional in deciding what part of the past you want to bring to the future.

I recommend doing this diagnostics over and over as life introduces new seasons, new view points and new circumstances that may require you to adjust what you value and how those beliefs inform how you act.

Dave Hollis

Growing up, we are influenced by our parents and their values and habits. Everything from the way we show and receive love to the way we think about our self-worth is the reflection of our early days. Some habits and values are passed down through generations. Some of these influences serve us well and others hold us back. That is the reason it’s important to periodically review our actions and thinking, so that we are not handing down the mindset that will hold our next generation back.

And, as it turns out, making a departure from your past, even a positive one, doesn’t mean you don’t have respect and appreciation for the things that made you who you are. It simply means you need additional or different things to thrive in a world that’s different now from the one you grew up in.

Dave Hollis

Times, people and needs are different now, so don’t be afraid of choosing something different from what you have known.

I can achieve balance if I work hard enough: There is no such thing as perfect balance in work and life. You have to plan everything and be ready to handle any curve balls along the way, life throws at you. Be ready to manage work and family life well, by meticulously planning each day of the week communicating your plans with your partner and deciding who is doing what, so that there are no surprises. This is especially crucial for fostering a strong relationship. Make time for self care and keep each other accountable for that. Hope is not the strategy for remaining healthy, Plan nutritious meals and exercise routines deliberately. Nurturing relationships also requires intentional investment to stay grounded amidst a busy schedule. Carve out dedicated time for your partner, kids, and friends, demonstrating your commitment by being fully present during those moments.