---
title: How Past Conditioning Has Been Influencing Your Inner Narrative ?
description: How to break free from the negative effects of past conditioning on your inner narrative? Discover the transformative power of changing your narrative and take control of your life. Read more on RichWoman.
author: Dr Marina Nani (Editor-in-Chief)
date: 2023-02-26T08:44:56.000Z
updated: 2026-02-26T15:47:33.645Z
canonical: https://richwoman.co/article/how-past-conditioning-has-been-influencing-your-inner-narrative
image: https://cdn.nanimediahouse.com/zbdqqrbapx8.jpg
categories: Transformational change, Wellbeing
content_type: Analysis
region: Global
publication: Rich Woman Magazine
---

If you take a moment to reflect on your past, can you see how conditioning impacted your inner narrative? The voice inside our heads that shapes our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s what makes us who we are, influencing our decisions, relationships, and overall sense of self. But have you ever stopped to consider where this voice comes from? The truth is, it’s shaped by our past conditioning.

Our experiences from childhood, family environment, cultural norms, media messaging, and even traumatic events can shape the way we think about ourselves and the world around us. These experiences can lead to negative self-talk, limiting beliefs, and a lack of confidence. But the good news is that it is possible to change your inner narrative and create a more positive,[ authentic self-perception](https://richwoman.co/article/self-perception-the-positive-spin-that-changes-your-future).

Childhood experiences, family environment, social norms, trauma, mental health, media, and societal messages all contribute to our inner narrative. These factors shape the beliefs we hold about ourselves, others, and the world around us. And they can have a profound impact on our daily lives, often without us even realizing it.

The way our [parents](https://richwoman.co/article/parenting-with-calm-and-compassion-from-the-empty-nest-the-art-of-letting-go) raised us, the cultural expectations we grew up with, the messages we receive from society – all of these things contribute to the way we talk to ourselves and the way we view the world. But the good news is, we have the power to change our inner narrative.

In this article, we’ll explore how past conditioning has been influencing your inner narrative. We’ll delve into the ways that childhood experiences, societal expectations, and mental health struggles can shape the way you think and feel. And we’ll discuss practical steps you can take to change your inner narrative for the better.

So if you’re ready to take control of the voice inside your head and li[ve a more fulfilling and authentic life](https://richwoman.co/article/what-gives-you-a-sense-of-purpose-adding-more-years-to-your-life), keep reading. We’ll have fun!

## Table of Contents

[How does conditioning influence behavior?](#how-does-conditioning-influence-behavior)[How your childhood experiences and family environment have shaped your inner narrative   ](#how-your-childhood-experiences-and-family-environment-have-shaped-your-inner-narrative)[Is social conditioning affecting your inner narrative?](#is-social-conditioning-affecting-your-inner-narrative)[How past conditioning from trauma and mental health struggles impact your inner narrative](#how-past-conditioning-from-trauma-and-mental-health-struggles-impact-your-inner-narrative)[How media and societal messages can influence your inner narrative](#how-media-and-societal-messages-can-influence-your-inner-narrative)[Changing your inner narrative](#changing-your-inner-narrative)[Take Away Thoughts](#take-away-thoughts)

## How does conditioning influence behavior?

Past conditioning has a profound impact on our lives, influencing everything from our beliefs and thoughts to our behaviours and physiological responses. In fact, conditioning is a process whereby a response becomes more frequent or predictable in a given environment as a result of reinforcement.

Reinforcement is typically a stimulus or reward for a desired response. For example, if you were rewarded with praise or attention when you achieved good grades as a child, you might be more likely to work hard and excel academically as an adult.

Similarly, if you were conditioned to associate certain [foods with pleasure or comfort](https://richwoman.co/article/mindful-eating-breaking-the-cycle-of-cravings-for-comfort-food) as a child, you might find yourself turning to those same foods as an adult when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. This type of conditioning can have a significant impact on your physical health, leading to issues such as weight gain and obesity.

Conditioning can also influence our physiological responses. For example, if you were conditioned to associate a certain smell or sound with a traumatic experience in your past, you might experience a physical reaction such as sweating or a rapid heartbeat when you encounter that same smell or sound in the present.

Identifying negative patterns of behaviour or physical reactions that stem from your conditioning, you can start to take steps to break those patterns and establish healthier, more positive responses.

## How your childhood experiences and family environment have shaped your inner narrative

At the heart of Marcel Proust’s masterpiece, À La Recherche du Temps Perdu, lies the concept of involuntary memory. And the madeleine anecdote is perhaps the most famous illustration of this idea.

In the [book](https://richwoman.co/article/the-power-of-storytelling-neuroscience-the-history-038-the-future-of-books), the narrator dips a madeleine cake into a cup of tea and takes a bite. The taste and smell of the cake immediately transport him back to his childhood, evoking memories of his aunt’s house in the country where he used to visit as a child.

The madeleine becomes a [powerful symbol of memory and the ways in which our past](https://richwoman.co/article/michelle-jewsbury-harnessing-the-power-to-overcome-past-trauma-and-take-back-your-life) experiences can be triggered unexpectedly by sensory stimuli.

The main point of this is to illustrate the idea that memories are not necessarily something that we can control or retrieve at will. Instead, they can be sparked by seemingly random sensory experiences that we encounter in our daily lives.

The madeleine represents the power of the senses to transport us back in time, allowing us to relive past experiences and emotions in vivid detail. This idea is central to Proust’s exploration of memory and its role in shaping our sense of self and our understanding of the world around us.

Through the madeleine anecdote, Proust invites us to reflect on the ways in which our own memories are shaped by our experiences and the sensory stimuli that we encounter. It is a powerful reminder that our past is never truly lost to us and that even the smallest details can hold profound meaning and significance.

Your childhood experiences and family environment have a profound impact on your inner narrative. The way your parents raised you, the values they instilled in you, and the [experiences you had as a child all shape the way you think and feel about yourself and the world](https://richwoman.co/article/the-exquisite-world-of-luxury-cruises-unveiling-unforgettable-experiences) around you.

Parental modeling is one way that your parents can influence your inner narrative. If your parents modeled positive self-talk and a healthy relationship with their own bodies, you’re more likely to develop those same habits. On the other hand, if your parents were constantly criticizing their own appearance or engaging in negative self-talk, you might have internalized those beliefs as well.

Disciplinary practices also play a role in shaping your inner narrative. If your parents were authoritarian and punitive, you might have developed a belief system that emphasizes obedience and punishment. Alternatively, if your parents were permissive and didn’t set clear boundaries, you might struggle with feelings of insecurity and a lack of direction.

Parenting styles can also affect your self-talk and belief system. Authoritative parenting, which emphasizes warmth and support as well as clear rules and boundaries, is associated with positive outcomes in children. Children of authoritative parents tend to have higher self-esteem, better mental health, and a more positive inner narrative. Conversely, children of authoritarian or neglectful parents are more likely to struggle with negative beliefs about themselves and the world.

[Understanding how your childhood experiences and family environment have shaped your inner](https://richwoman.co/article/the-crisis-of-self-trust-understanding-the-science-behind-your-inner-light) narrative is crucial if you want to make positive changes. By identifying negative beliefs that stem from your childhood and working to replace them with positive ones, you can start to shift your inner narrative in a more positive direction. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth the effort to live a more fulfilling and authentic life.

## Is social conditioning affecting your inner narrative?

Social norms and cultural expectations play a significant role in shaping our inner narrative. From a young age, we are exposed to a wide range of messages and beliefs about how we should behave, what we should value, and what we should strive for in life.

One of the most powerful forces shaping our inner narrative is gender roles. Depending on your gender identity, you may have been conditioned to believe that certain behaviors or traits are more appropriate for you than others. For example, if you were assigned male at birth, you might have been told to be tough, competitive, and independent, while if you were assigned female, you might have been encouraged to be nurturing, emotional, and submissive. These messages can have a profound impact on your sense of self, your relationships, and your career choices.

Societal beauty standards are another powerful force that can shape your inner narrative. If you grew up in a culture that places a high value on physical appearance, you might [feel pressure to conform to certain beauty](https://richwoman.co/article/beyond-make-up-and-beauty-look-and-feel-your-best-during-your-holiday) standards in order to be accepted or successful. This pressure can lead to negative self-talk and a belief that your worth is tied to your physical appearance.

Cultural beliefs can also impact your inner narrative. For example, if you grew up in a culture that values conformity and obedience to authority, you might find it challenging to speak up for yourself or pursue your own goals and desires. On the other hand, if you grew up in a culture that values individualism and self-expression, you might feel more comfortable asserting yourself and pursuing your passions.

[Understanding how social norms and cultural expectations have shaped your inner](https://richwoman.co/article/the-crisis-of-self-trust-understanding-the-science-behind-your-inner-light) narrative is an essential step in creating a more positive and authentic sense of self. By examining the beliefs and thought patterns that have been instilled in you from a young age, you can begin to identify areas where you might be holding yourself back or limiting your potential.

It’s important to remember that breaking free from [social norms and cultural expectations can be challenging](https://richwoman.co/culture/afternoon-tea-a-social-institution-a-timeless-british-tradition-challenging-anxiety/). It often requires a willingness to challenge long-held beliefs and to risk being judged or criticized by others. However, with courage and determination, it is possible to create a more fulfilling and authentic life for yourself, one that is guided by your own values and desires rather than the expectations of others.

## How past conditioning from trauma and mental health struggles impact your inner narrative

Trauma and mental health struggles can have a profound impact on our inner narrative, shaping the way we view ourselves and the world around us. These experiences can leave lasting emotional scars that influence the way we think, feel, and behave.

If you’ve experienced trauma or mental health struggles in the past, you may find that your inner narrative is marked by negative self-talk and beliefs. You may feel as though you’re not good enough or that you don’t deserve happiness or success. These beliefs can be incredibly damaging, holding you back from reaching your full potential and enjoying a fulfilling life.

One of the key ways in which past conditioning from trauma or mental health struggles can impact your inner narrative is through the process of negative reinforcement. This occurs when negative experiences and feelings are reinforced over time, leading to a cycle of self-doubt and negative self-talk.

For example, if you’ve experienced abuse or neglect in the past, you may have learned to doubt your own worth and value as a person. Over time, these negative beliefs can become deeply ingrained, influencing the way you view yourself and the world around you.

It’s important to recognize the impact that past conditioning can have on your mental health and inner narrative. If you’re struggling with negative self-talk or beliefs, it’s important to seek support from a mental health professional who can help you work through these issues and develop a more positive and empowering inner narrative.

Remember, you are not defined by your past experiences. With the right support and tools, you can break free from negative patterns of thinking and build a more positive and fulfilling life for yourself.

In addition to negative self-talk and beliefs, past conditioning from trauma or mental health struggles can also impact your behaviour and relationships with others. You may find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges that make it difficult to connect with others and form meaningful relationships.

It’s important to remember that healing from trauma and mental health struggles is a process that takes time and effort. It’s not something that can be accomplished overnight, but with persistence and the right support, it is possible to overcome these challenges and build a more positive and fulfilling life.

One of the key steps in this process is learning to identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking and behaviour. This may involve working with a mental health professional to explore your past experiences and develop new coping strategies that can help you break free from negative cycles of thought and behaviour.

Another important aspect of healing from trauma and mental health struggles is building a support network of friends, family members, and mental health professionals who can provide you with the guidance and encouragement you need to keep [moving forward](https://richwoman.co/article/the-art-of-doing-nothing-on-spring-bank-holiday-retreat-before-you-move-forward). This support can be invaluable as you work through difficult emotions and challenges, and can help you develop a more positive and empowering inner narrative.

Ultimately, the journey to healing from trauma and mental health struggles is unique for each individual. It requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to face difficult emotions and experiences head-on. But with the right tools and support, it is possible to build a more positive and fulfilling life, free from the negative patterns of thought and behaviour that have held you back in the past.

## How media and societal messages can influence your inner narrative

From television shows to [social media](https://richwoman.co/article/the-age-of-connectivity-is-social-media-a-blossom-or-a-thorn-for-our-youth-s-wellbeing) platforms, we are constantly bombarded with messages that influence our thoughts, beliefs, and values. Unfortunately, many of these messages promote unrealistic standards of beauty, success, and happiness, which can have a detrimental effect on our self-talk and belief system.

Have you ever found yourself scrolling through social media and feeling inadequate or not good enough? Or maybe you’ve watched a movie or TV show that left you feeling like your life is missing something. These feelings are often the result of media and societal messages that promote a particular standard of success and happiness.

For example, many beauty and fashion advertisements portray a very narrow definition of beauty, often featuring models who are tall, thin, and conventionally attractive. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem for those who don’t fit into these narrow beauty standards. Similarly, societal messages about success often prioritise [financial wealth](https://richwoman.co/article/optimal-financial-health-for-single-moms-and-the-next-generation-of-wealth-with-dr-wendy-laba) and career success, which can lead to feelings of failure or inadequacy for those who don’t measure up.

The media’s influence on our inner narrative is not limited to beauty and success standards. It also extends to the way we view our relationships, our health, and even our political beliefs. For instance, news outlets and social media platforms can create echo chambers, where we are only exposed to information that confirms our existing beliefs, making it challenging to consider alternative perspectives.

By understanding how media and societal messages can shape our inner narrative, we can become more conscious consumers of media and better equipped to challenge the messages that don’t align with our values.

## Changing your inner narrative

While it’s important to acknowledge the influence of past conditioning on your inner narrative, it’s equally important to recognize that you have the power to change it. The first step towards[ changing your inner narrative](https://richwoman.co/article/what-do-you-change-in-your-narrative-to-unleash-your-human-potential) is to identify negative beliefs that may be holding you back. This can be a difficult process, as these beliefs are often deeply ingrained and may have been reinforced over many years.

Once you have identified negative beliefs, it’s important to challenge them and replace them with positive ones. This can be done through self-reflection, [journaling](https://richwoman.co/article/journaling-as-your-inner-child-to-heal-past-trauma), and positive affirmations. For example, if you have a negative belief that you are not good enough, you could challenge that belief by reflecting on your accomplishments and strengths and reminding yourself that you are capable and deserving of success.

It’s important to note that changing your inner narrative is within your power, as only you have control over the tone of [your self-talk](https://richwoman.co/article/positive-self-talk-5-easy-steps-to-protect-your-mental-health). It often requires conscious effort and a willingness to explore uncomfortable emotions and experiences. Therapy can be a valuable tool in this process, as it provides a safe and supportive [space](https://richwoman.co/article/have-you-tried-space-somersault-astronaut-peggy-whitson-is-dancing-with-the-stars) to explore and address past conditioning and negative beliefs.

Self-care and self-compassion can also be helpful in changing your inner narrative. This may include activities such as meditation, exercise, spending time in nature, or engaging in creative pursuits.

Ultimately, changing your inner narrative requires a commitment to yourself and a willingness to challenge long-held beliefs and behaviours. With time, effort, and support, it is possible to create a more positive and empowering inner narrative that can help you navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and confidence.

Changing your inner narrative is not an overnight process. It requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to confront and challenge your beliefs. Here are some tips on how to start changing your inner narrative:

1. Identify negative beliefs: The first step is to become aware of the negative beliefs that are holding you back. Take some time to reflect on your self-talk and notice when you’re being self-critical or limiting yourself. Write down these beliefs so you can start to recognize them when they come up.
2. [Challenge negative beliefs](https://richwoman.co/article/can-you-retrain-your-brain-to-overwrite-negative-bias-in-21-days): Once you’ve identified your negative beliefs, start to challenge them. Ask yourself if they’re really true or if they’re just a result of past conditioning. Look for evidence that contradicts these beliefs and try to see situations from a different perspective.
3. Replace negative beliefs with positive ones: When you become aware of your negative thoughts, you can start to[ challenge your negative beliefs, and replace them with positive ones](https://richwoman.co/article/5-easy-steps-to-stay-positive-in-negative-circumstances). Instead of telling yourself “I can’t do this,” say “I can do this if I try my best.” Instead of focusing on your flaws, focus on your strengths and what makes you unique.
4. Start writing: [Writing can be a powerful tool for changing your inner](https://richwoman.co/article/how-to-write-a-letter-to-your-inner-child-a-guide-to-healing-and-unlearning) narrative. Creative writing, blogging can be a valuable tool for changing your inner narrative.[ Becoming a published author](https://www.bookgenius.co/beyoubook) also allows you to challenge and reframe negative thoughts into positive ones.  When you write down positive affirmations and beliefs, you reinforce them in your [mind and create](https://richwoman.co/article/create-a-mindful-eating-plan-to-break-free-from-the-obesity-crisis) a new narrative. Writing can also help you process and heal from traumatic experiences, by allowing you to express emotions and gain clarity on the event.
5. Journaling: When you put your thoughts down on paper, you give them a concrete form that can be examined, analysed, and altered. By writing down negative thoughts and beliefs, you can begin to recognize patterns and understand how past conditioning has influenced your inner narrative.  An outlet for creativity and self-expression, [journaling allows you to explore different perspectives and ideas through writing.](https://www.neverendingbookseries.com/) You can develop a more nuanced and authentic understanding of yourself and the world around you.
6. Practice self-care: Practicing self-care is essential in changing your inner narrative. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Take care of your physical health by eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated.

Challenging negative beliefs and replacing them with positive ones,  can create a new perspective on who you are and the role you play in the world around you

## Take Away Thoughts

When you take a moment to reflect on your past and how past conditioning has influenced your inner narrative, you open a door into a world of infinite possibilities. By understanding the impact of your past experiences and conditioning, you can begin to unravel negative thought patterns and beliefs, and replace them with more positive and empowering ones. This process can lead to a deeper sense of self-awareness and a more authentic, fulfilling life. It may take time and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. So take that step and open the door to a richer, more meaningful inner world.

Changing your inner narrative is a challenging but incredibly rewarding process that can lead to a more authentic, fulfilling life. It requires self-reflection, courage, and a willingness to challenge long-held beliefs and assumptions about yourself and the world around you. By taking the necessary steps to change your inner narrative, you can break free from negative thought patterns and beliefs that may have been holding you back for years.

The first step in changing your inner narrative is to identify negative beliefs and replace them with positive ones. This can be done through therapy, self-reflection, or a combination of both. It may require you to confront uncomfortable truths about yourself and your past, but it is a crucial step in breaking free from the negative conditioning that has been holding you back.

Self-reflection is a great tool in changing your inner narrative. This can involve journaling, meditation, or simply taking time to reflect on your thoughts and beliefs. By becoming more aware of your inner dialogue, you can begin to challenge negative beliefs and replace them with more positive, empowering ones.

Changing your inner narrative takes time and conscious effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. By letting go of negative conditioning and beliefs, you can create a more authentic, richer life for yourself. You can live more fully in the present moment, free from the limiting beliefs and assumptions that may have been holding you back. So if you’re ready to take the first step towards a more fulfilling life, start by examining your inner narrative and taking the necessary steps to change it.
