From: alexhormozi
Successful business growth depends on three key components: the entrepreneur’s skills, character traits, and beliefs [00:00:21]. Often, a business’s growth is constrained by a “bottleneck” or “weak link” within the entrepreneur’s own character traits [00:00:37].
The Power of “I Am” Statements
“I am” statements are among the most powerful declarations an individual can make about what they believe to be true of themselves [00:01:55]. These deeply embedded beliefs define an individual’s identity [00:08:10].
However, these statements can become limiting when they describe fixed, unchangeable traits that hinder growth. For example, entrepreneurs might say, “We are high anxiety people” [00:02:04] or “I’m an all or nothing type person” [00:02:21]. Such definitive statements imply that nothing can be done to change the trait [00:04:06].
Shifting Your Language
To foster growth, one’s identity must adapt to whatever is required for advancement [00:03:42]. This means changing the language used to describe oneself [00:04:11]. Instead of definitive “I am” statements, it is beneficial to use phrases like:
- “I have a tendency towards…” [00:03:59]
- “I have a proclivity for…” [00:04:01]
- “I struggle with behaviors that are this way…” [00:08:49]
Changing the way we speak about ourselves changes the way we think, which in turn changes the way we live [00:04:11].
Does this belief serve me?
When identifying a trait you claim to possess, ask yourself: “Does this belief serve me? Is this going to help me accomplish the goals that I have?” [00:04:28] If the answer is no, then it is important to stop saying it [00:04:33].
The Danger of Crutches and Superstitions
Beyond self-limiting “I am” statements, becoming dependent on routines, rituals, or external substances can also create significant weaknesses. These are referred to as “crutches” or “superstitions” [00:04:42].
The Weakening Effect of Dependence
When individuals become “religiously” adherent to specific routines, using phrases like “I have to,” “I must,” or “I need to,” they declare how the world must be, despite having no control over it [00:05:08]. This dependency ultimately makes them weaker and less resilient [00:04:54].
Examples of such dependencies include:
- Needing alcohol, blunts, edibles, or pills to fall asleep [00:05:36].
- Relying on coffee just to feel “normal” after prolonged use, losing its initial benefit [00:06:30].
- Believing certain rituals are necessary for productivity, creativity, or mental well-being [00:09:03].
Historically, humans were able to function effectively without these modern dependencies [00:05:56]. True strength lies in being able to perform effectively regardless of external circumstances [00:07:32]. As an entrepreneur, the goal is to be resilient enough to succeed independent of circumstance [00:09:55], embodying the principle: “You are source, not reaction” [00:10:01].