5 ways we self sabotage

This article on self sabotage was republished with permission from Choosing Therapy. To view the full, original article including techniques to overcome self sabotage, click here.

Self-sabotage refers to beliefs and behaviours that prevent us from achieving our goals, hopes, and dreams. It is a very normal part of the human experience, something we all do from time to time – often without fully realizing we’re doing it. Fortunately, knowing the types of self-sabotage, where it comes from, and some helpful tips to neutralize it can help you overcome a fierce inner critic.

Here are five types of self-sabotage:

1. Procrastination

Procrastination involves stalling rather than immediately diving into a project. Delaying action and engaging in distractions helps people avoid stress, anxiety, or otherwise emotionally uncomfortable situations, even though they might ultimately lead to growth. Learning how to overcome procrastination can help stop this form of self-sabotage.

2. Perfectionism

Perfectionism is a need for everything to be completely perfect, and it can be self-defeating. An intense sense of perfectionism prevents people from advancing in their career or enjoying satisfying, long-term relationships because it sets an impossibly high standard. Perfectionism at work or school can prevent people from taking necessary risks or even completing projects. Thankfully, there are ways to overcome perfectionism.

3. Self-Criticism

Negative self-talk and harsh self-criticism can affect our actions and prevent us from meeting our goals. It’s frequently automatic, running through our minds unchecked as an instant reaction to ourselves, others, and the situations we encounter every day. Listening to harsh self-criticism is a form of self-sabotage because doing so prevents us from believing that we have what it takes to achieve our goals.

4. Resisting Change

Uncertainty intolerance is an underlying form of anxiety, and resisting change can keep people trapped in their comfort zone. It involves clinging to old habits, making excuses (such as being too busy), making goals without taking the proper steps to meet them, or avoiding goal-setting altogether. Resistance to change prevents people from healthy risk-taking or trying new things that could lead to growth.

5. Poor Self-Care

Not taking proper care of yourself is a form of self-sabotage that can prevent you from thriving. This includes poor eating habits, lack of sleep, not exercising, or avoiding visits with a doctor or therapist for physical and mental health challenges. It can also involve engaging in risky behaviours like self-medicating with alcohol or drugs, comfort eating, gambling or risky sex.

For tips on how to overcome self sabotage, read the original article by Choosing Therapy here.

Do you self sabotage? Do you want to take control of your life? Here’s what you need to do: Contact Colleen on 0434 337 245 or Duncan on 0434 331 243 for a FREE 10 minute consultation on how we can best help you or book online now.