Do you know the truth or simply hold a belief?

There’s a trend on this site and I just can’t ignore it. Too many young women are having a difficult time determining truth from beliefs and I truly think that affects the outcome of their choices and how they are determining the path to their dreams.

To demonstrate what I mean, let’s play a little game…

Can you spot the truth?

In the following set of statements, can which one(s) are true?

1. Girls can’t play football.
2. Girls can’t play in the National Football League (NFL).
3. Girls don’t play football.
4. Girls shouldn’t play football.

Which one is the truth? If you guessed #2, you’re wrong.  There is currently no written rule stating that women cannot play in the NFL. Therefore, #2 is simply a belief that women can’t play in the NFL.

In fact, all four of these statements are simply beliefs.  There’s not a shred of truth to them. The same applies to both the NBA (basketball) and NHL (hockey). No female has yet played in those leagues but that doesn’t mean that someday, somewhere a female will step onto the field and play the game with the guys. (And before you argue about why women should or shouldn’t play alongside the men, check out this thread for an enlightening discussion on the subject.)

My point is this… take a long, hard look at what you think is a “fact”.  Research it and ask questions.  Look for solid evidence before you make a statement that women “can’t” do something. Make sure that your thoughts reflect the truth and not a belief that lacks a solid foundation.

You can apply this to absolutely anything. And when you start making the distinction between a belief and a statement of truth, the world will look completely different to you – in a very exciting way.

Just because women aren’t currently doing something, doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Now take a look at what’s holding you back from reaching your dream. Is it the truth or simply a belief?