Transforming the Thought: "I Am Not Good Enough" with Byron Katie’s Inquiry

As you may know already, I love Byron Katie! I share her inquiry with my clients often.

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, *"I am not good enough"*? This belief is one of the most common and deeply ingrained thoughts that hold us back. But what if that thought isn’t actually true? Byron Katie’s method, known as *The Work*, provides a powerful way to question and unravel these limiting beliefs.

The Four Questions of Inquiry

Byron Katie teaches that any stressful thought can be examined through four simple but profound questions:

1. Is it true?

2. Can you absolutely know that it’s true?

3. How do you react—what happens—when you believe that thought?

4. Who would you be without that thought?

Let’s walk through these questions using the statement, *"I am not good enough."*

Question 1: Is it true?

At first, you might immediately answer, *Yes, it feels true!* Maybe you think of past failures or times when you felt judged. But take a deep breath. Sit with the question. Is it **really** true? Is there no evidence of your worth at all?

Question 2: Can you absolutely know that it’s true?

Can you **absolutely** know that you are not good enough? 100%? For all time, in every situation? Likely, the answer is no. There are moments when you have succeeded, when others have seen your value, when you’ve made a difference.

Question 3: How do you react when you believe that thought?

Do you feel heavy? Anxious? Do you shrink back from opportunities, stop yourself from trying, or compare yourself to others? Notice what this thought does to your energy, emotions, and even your body.

Question 4: Who would you be without that thought?

Imagine a version of yourself that **does not believe** *"I am not good enough."* How would you feel? Would you be lighter, more confident, more open? Would you take more chances, embrace yourself fully, and move forward with joy?

The Turnaround

The final step in *The Work* is turning the thought around. Try reversing it:

"I am good enough."

"I am more than enough."

"I am exactly as I need to be."

Find evidence for these new statements. Where have you been good enough? How have you shown up with love, strength, or courage?

The next time you hear the thought "I am not good enough," pause. Ask the questions. Feel into the turnarounds. Over time, this practice can shift your inner dialogue and open space for healing and self-acceptance.

Are you ready to explore what’s beyond your limiting beliefs? Let’s do this together.