Who You Believe You Are, You Become

What’s interesting is that most people think they need external validation before they claim an identity. They believe success is something to be earned before it’s owned. But that’s not how transformation works.

You don’t become an ultramarathon runner when you cross the finish line.

You become one the moment you decide that’s who you are.

This is the self-fulfilling prophecy in action. Your beliefs dictate your actions, which create results that reinforce your original belief. It’s a cycle that works for you—or against you.

The Power of the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

A self-fulfilling prophecy is when a belief—whether positive or negative—shapes behavior in a way that makes it come true. If you believe you’re destined for more, you’ll act in ways that align with that belief. If you believe you’re stuck, you’ll take actions (or inactions) that keep you there.

One of the best examples of this is Conor McGregor. Before he was a global phenomenon, he carried himself like a champion. He spoke with absolute certainty about his future—before the world had any reason to believe him. After his lightning-fast knockout of José Aldo, he summed up his mindset in a post-fight interview:

McGregor didn’t wait for proof—he created it. His belief shaped his actions, which shaped his results, which reinforced his belief.

Your self-fulfilling prophecy is happening whether you realize it or not. The question is: Is it working for you or against you?

The Identity Loop: A Formula for Success

Every action you take is a vote for the person you believe you are. The cycle looks like this:

Belief → Action → Outcome → Reinforced Belief

If you believe in your ability to achieve something, you will act accordingly. Those actions will create results, and those results will reinforce your belief.

• If you believe you’re an athlete, you’ll train like one.
• If you believe you’re a high performer, you’ll push past limits, take risks, and level up.
• If you believe you’re a failure, you’ll hesitate, avoid discomfort, and confirm that belief through inaction.

This cycle works both ways. Negative beliefs lead to self-sabotage. Positive beliefs lead to transformation. You get to decide which prophecy you fulfill.

Winning in the Darkness: The Leadville Mindset

I’m training for the Leadville 100 Trail Run. A 100-mile race at high altitude through unforgiving terrain. It’s not a place for wishful thinking—it’s a place for the prepared.

And that’s why victory is won in the darkness.

• It’s won in the 5:00 AM and 9:00 PM training runs when no one is watching.
• It’s won in the moments when your mind begs you to stop, but you push forward.
• It’s won in the sacrifices—sleep, comfort, convenience—that most people aren’t willing to make.

By the time race day arrives, the decision has already been made. The finish line is simply the result of what’s already been done in the dark.

Rewiring Your Mind for Transformation

If you want to change your life, start acting like the person you want to become today. Don’t wait for permission. Don’t wait until you feel ready. Decide, and then prove yourself right.

• Adopt the Identity – Tell yourself: I am becoming the best version of myself. I think differently. I act with purpose. I move toward my goals every single day.
• Take Small Daily Actions – Even if you’re not at your destination yet, live like the person you want to be: wake up early, set goals, take care of your health, cut out distractions, and stay committed.
• Commit to the Long Game – Real change isn’t instant. It’s about sticking with your growth, pushing through setbacks, and becoming stronger through the process.

The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: Believe First, Then Become

The question isn’t “Can I do this?”

The real question is: Do you believe you already are?

Because once you do, your actions will take care of the rest.