Unlearning Conditioning to Empower Your Truth
- Elly Geary
- Mar 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 20
In a world where we are constantly absorbing messages about who we should be and how we should live, unlearning becomes a radical act of self-empowerment. We are often conditioned to believe certain things—about success, relationships, work, and even our own worth—without realizing how deeply ingrained these beliefs have become. But what if we could peel back the layers of conditioning and reconnect with our true, authentic selves?
In this blog, I’ll explore why unlearning is a crucial part of reclaiming your truth, how to recognize when you’re out of alignment, and share reflections to help you on your journey back to yourself.

What is Unlearning and Why is it Important?
Unlearning refers to shedding beliefs, habits, and thought patterns that we have unconsciously absorbed, often from societal norms, family expectations, or past experiences. Many of these conditioned beliefs shape our decisions and lead us down paths that may not align with our deepest truths.
The process of unlearning allows us to step into a more authentic version of ourselves—one that is not dictated by external expectations but rather guided by inner wisdom. When we begin to question these ingrained beliefs, we create space for self-discovery, personal growth, and a life that feels truly aligned with who we are.
Recognizing When You’re Out of Alignment
If you’ve ever felt exhausted, drained, or disconnected from yourself, you might be living out of alignment with your truth. Some common signs include:
Burnout and Fatigue: Feeling constantly exhausted and depleted is often a signal that something is not working for you. Many of us accept burnout as a normal part of life, but it doesn’t have to be.
Disconnection from Your Body: If you find yourself going through the motions of life without truly feeling present, this could be a sign that you’re not living in alignment with your truth.
Feeling Trapped by Expectations: If your life choices are driven by what others expect of you rather than what genuinely fulfills you, it may be time to reassess.
Resentment and Frustration: These emotions often arise when we say yes to things that don’t serve us, whether it’s a job, a relationship, or a social obligation.
My Personal Journey of Unlearning
There was a time in my life when I had built a reality that felt completely misaligned. I was in a demanding corporate job, juggling responsibilities as a single mother, and constantly pushing myself to prove my worth through external achievements. I believed that success meant relentless hard work, that financial security justified my exhaustion, and that saying no was selfish.
It wasn’t until I hit a breaking point that I began questioning these beliefs. The turning point came during the pandemic when I was placed on furlough. At first, I was devastated. But then, something shifted. I started reflecting on what truly mattered to me. I asked myself: If I could strip away all expectations and do anything, what would I choose? The answer surprised me—I wanted to be a yoga teacher.
This realization was both liberating and terrifying. I had spent so long identifying with my corporate role that the idea of leaving it behind felt impossible. But as I leaned into unlearning, I started to see that my worth was not tied to a job title or financial success. I embraced a simpler, more intentional life—one that aligned with my values and allowed me to show up as the person I truly wanted to be.
The Power of Saying No
One of the most empowering aspects of unlearning is realizing that you have the right to say no. Many of us struggle with people-pleasing tendencies, feeling guilty for setting boundaries or prioritizing our well-being. But the truth is, saying no is an act of self-respect.
For example, I used to say yes to every family gathering, even when I felt emotionally drained. I believed that declining would make me a bad family member. But when I started listening to my body and honoring my own needs, I realized that showing up authentically mattered more than simply being present out of obligation. When I finally started setting boundaries, I felt more aligned, more at peace, and more empowered.
Reflective Questions to Reconnect with Your Truth
If you’re feeling disconnected or struggling with conditioned beliefs, take some time to reflect on these questions in relation to a challenge or specific situation if you can:
What is my current belief mindset or truth (and how does it feel in my body)?
Is this really the absolute full truth deep down?
Is there perhaps an even deeper belief or truth within me?
Remember there is no right or wrong thing to notice, you don't need to have answers but you may find insights and wisdom you didn't have before...By journaling on these questions and tuning into your body’s responses, you can start to uncover the wisdom that is already there..
Embracing Your Truth Through Embodiment
Unlearning is not just a mental process—it is deeply connected to the body. When we make choices that honor our truth, we feel it physically. We feel lighter, more energized, more at ease. Conversely, when we betray our truth, our bodies react with tension, fatigue, and discomfort.
This is why embodiment practices can be powerful tools for self-discovery. They help us reconnect with our inner wisdom and make decisions from a place that isn't dictated by fear or conditioning.
Final Thoughts: Stepping into Your Power
Unlearning is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, courage, and a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone. But the reward is a life that feels authentic, fulfilling, and deeply empowering.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into this journey, I invite you to explore my coaching program, Recapture Your Truth, where I guide women through the process of unlearning, embodiment, and self-reclamation. You deserve to live in alignment with your truth and feel free—and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
For more insights, reflections, and support, feel free to connect with me or book a discovery call through my website. And if this blog resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with others who may need to hear this message.
Thank you for being here, for exploring your truth, and for embracing the journey of unlearning. I can’t wait to share more with you soon!
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