Wellness Author Reveals Subconscious Thoughts That Are Keeping You Fat and Sick

How Liminal Thoughts Are Killing You

Many of us struggle to make lasting changes to our health, weight, or overall well-being, often without realizing the root cause: subconscious beliefs working against us. 

These “liminal thoughts” operate below the surface, influencing our behaviors and keeping us stuck in patterns that sabotage our goals. 

Let’s explore what these hidden thoughts are, how they manifest, and, most importantly, how to overcome them.

What Are Liminal Thoughts?

Liminal thoughts are the subconscious beliefs you hold without consciously realizing it. They stem from past experiences, societal influences, and internalized judgments. We all carry some around. 

These thoughts can lead you to believe things about yourself and your capabilities that simply aren’t true, creating roadblocks to achieving a healthier and more fulfilling life.

While these beliefs might feel invisible, they shape your decisions and behaviors every day. The good news? With awareness and deliberate effort, you can identify and change them, clearing the path to progress.

Why Addressing Your Thinking Is Crucial

When your conscious goals (e.g., losing weight, eating better, or improving health) conflict with your subconscious beliefs, progress becomes nearly impossible. 

You can’t simply “willpower” your way out of the problem, despite what you may see on social media or other advertisements.

Instead, you need to dig deep and address the underlying beliefs causing this inner conflict. Only by aligning your thoughts with your goals can you make sustainable changes.

Four Common Liminal Thoughts That Keep You Stuck

1. Believing You’re Fundamentally Different from Healthy People 

Many people think they lack the special qualities that others possess, such as willpower, good genetics, or discipline. This belief creates a mental barrier that keeps you from trying. 

The reality is, no one is fundamentally different; healthy people aren’t superhuman—they’ve simply developed habits and mindsets that support their goals.

2. Worrying About What Others Will Think

Concerns about others’ judgments can sabotage your progress. Whether you’re worried about being teased for making healthier choices or fear disrupting family dynamics by saying no to certain foods, these thoughts can paralyze you. 

The truth is, people who care about you will likely support your changes, and if they don’t, their judgments often say more about them than you.

3. Hoping Bad Habits Are Healthy

This thought manifests as clinging to the idea that your current habits might not be so bad. Whether you’re searching for YouTube videos or articles validating your behavior, you’re ignoring the evidence from your own experience. 

If your habits haven’t yielded the results you want, it’s time to stop hoping for magic and take responsibility for making a change.

4. Fearing Loss of Comfort or Joy 

We associate drugs and drug-like foods with fun, comfort, or indulgence. Thoughts like, “I won’t enjoy life without this treat,” mask deeper fears of change. 

Your brain will resist giving up your drug of choice. The first step is acknowledging this fear and confronting it head-on.

How to Break Free from Liminal Thoughts

Awareness and Acceptance 

Start by identifying the specific beliefs holding you back. Write them down and ask yourself: Is this really true? 

For example, if you believe you lack willpower, think of times you’ve successfully adopted new habits, like flossing your teeth or waking up earlier. This exercise helps you see that your belief isn’t entirely accurate.

Challenge Your Thoughts 

Use techniques like Byron Katie’s The Work to question your beliefs. Ask yourself:

  • Is this thought absolutely true?
  • How does it make me feel to think this way?
  • What might happen if I believed the opposite? By turning these thoughts around, you create room for more empowering beliefs.

Reframe and Replace 

Replace disempowering thoughts with realistic, positive alternatives. For example, instead of thinking, “I’ll never stick to healthy eating,” try, “I’ve stuck to new habits before, and I can do it again.” Start with small, believable shifts and build from there.

Shine a Light on Shame 

Shame thrives in secrecy. When you acknowledge and confront these hidden thoughts, their power diminishes. Bringing them into the open allows you to examine them objectively and take action to change them.

Commit to Consistency 

Changing subconscious beliefs is a process, not an overnight fix. Regularly revisit and challenge your thoughts, and celebrate small victories along the way. Remember, lasting change requires persistence and patience.

The Work That Truly Matters

Breaking free from liminal thoughts doesn’t mean exhausting yourself with endless willpower battles. The real work lies in examining your beliefs, shifting your mindset, and creating mental alignment with your goals. 

This isn’t about running marathons or surviving extreme diets—it’s about changing the narrative in your head.

By addressing these hidden thoughts and replacing them with empowering beliefs, you can overcome the subconscious barriers holding you back. Progress starts with awareness, grows through intentional action, and culminates in lasting transformation.

Need some help getting down to the nitty gritty of your subconscious? Well, you’re in luck-it’s kind of my speciality. Click here to learn about my transformational wellness program.

For more on liminal thoughts, listen to my episode of the Get Out of Your Own Way podcast below and check out my other article on this topic.

January 22, 2025

All content ©Kori McClurg 2025

Branding & Site Design by Moriah Riona Branding

All content ©Kori McClurg 2025