What’s Really Holding You Back? (Hint: It’s Not the Market)

Let me share something personal with you…

I almost failed English in school.

That’s not an exaggeration—it’s the truth.

And for years, I told myself a story:
“I’m not a writer.”
“I’m not smart enough to write a book.”
“That’s for other people, not me.”

It was a quiet story, but a convincing one.

And like so many of the stories we tell ourselves, it shaped what I thought was possible.

So for decades, despite having knowledge, experience, and ideas that could help others…
I stayed silent.

Until one day, I started questioning the story.

The stories we tell ourselves

Every one of us carries a story.

Sometimes it’s inherited—passed down by teachers, parents, or peers. Other times, it’s crafted in the quiet corners of our self-doubt.

And here’s what I’ve learned:

Note: The stories we tell ourselves will either imprison us or empower us. There is no in-between.

If you tell yourself you’re not creative… You won’t create.

If you believe you’re not capable…You won’t try.

If you tell yourself you’re not worthy…You won’t pursue the things that matter.

These stories don’t just influence how you think. They influence what you do.

And what you don’t do.

From “not a writer” to 9 published books

Fast forward to today - I’ve had nine books published, two of which have become international bestsellers, translated into seven languages.

And I say that not to brag, but to make a point: I was wrong about myself.

The kid who almost failed English is now someone others look to for insight and guidance.

But that only happened because I rewrote the story.

I started showing up differently.

I stopped seeing myself as “not a writer,” and started acting like someone who had something to say.

And here's the kicker: I always had something to say.

I just had to give myself permission to say it.

Your turn

So let me ask you:

• What story are you telling yourself right now?
• What have you convinced yourself you’re “not”?
• Where in your life are you shrinking because of a false narrative?

Because chances are, it’s not a lack of ability holding you back…It’s a lack of belief.

The story you’re clinging to might be the very thing keeping you from that next breakthrough.

The bottom line…

You don’t have to be perfect to start.

You just have to be willing to question the script.

So if you’re carrying around a story that no longer serves you…

It’s time to put down the pen.

Pick up a new page.

And write something better.

Because if I can go from almost failing English to international bestselling author, just imagine what’s possible for you when you decide to change the story you tell yourself.

About Michael Yardney Michael is the founder of Metropole Property Strategists who help their clients grow, protect and pass on their wealth through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. He's once again been voted Australia's leading property investment adviser and one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders. His opinions are regularly featured in the media.