The Adopted Truths Story Code™

This Story Code is all about the narratives and labels that were given to you and the ones you internalized, even if they weren’t true.

They didn’t come from your own voice.

They came from parents, teachers, siblings, early relationships anyone whose opinion felt louder than your own while your identity was still forming.

These messages weren’t always cruel.

Sometimes they were subtle. Sometimes they sounded like guidance or praise.

But over time, they shaped how you saw yourself.

They didn’t come from your voice, but they’ve become it.

This Code sounds like:

"You’re too sensitive."

"You always mess things up."

"You’re the smart one not the athletic one."

"You can't sing."

"The middle child is always the wild one"

Maybe you didn’t fully agree... but you've carried it anyway

It can show up as:

Overcompensating by people-pleasing because you were once called a "mean girl"

Staying quiet in conversations because you were labeled "bossy" or "a know-it-all"

Trying to prove you're "good enough" even when you already are

Overexplaining, unworthiness, or paralyzed from perfectionism

Carrying shame for not being able to live up to the label

Journal Prompt:

Think back: Was there something you were called, teased about, or labeled when you were younger that still echoes in how you see yourself today?

You know it’s not true, but where do you still feel its grip, in your thoughts, your voice, or your decisions?