Ep #55: How to Stop Self-Sabotage

Today I’m shining a light on self-sabotage, a topic I personally know all too well. It’s something I also see crop up time and again in the lives of my clients and peers, and know just how damaging its effects can be. In this episode, we’ll explore the different forms of self-sabotage, discuss how to normalise it and talk practical ways to stop it from taking hold in our lives.

At its core, self-sabotage is the tendency to undermine our own efforts and goals, often without us even realising it. While the process of self-sabotage is one of self-protection, it actually causes us to engage in unconstructive behaviour and pull us away from what we really want.

It can manifest in two primary ways: creating problems that conflict with our objectives or failing to take necessary actions that lead to success. Many of us experience self-sabotage at various points in our lives, and it's essential to recognise the patterns of behaviour that often go unobserved.

I discuss overcoming self-sabotage by developing self-awareness and identifying the habits that hold us back. Common signs of self-sabotage include:

• Procrastination

• Perfectionism

• Avoiding feedback

• Indulging in self-doubt

• Comparing ourselves to others

• Refusing help

• Frequently changing direction

While it’s important to recognise the ways in which self-sabotage manifests, it doesn’t end there. We must implement the tools and strategies that will help us take control over our actions and change the ways of operating we often default to.

I take you through seven key steps you can take to overcome self-sabotage, which include things like clarifying your goals, mastering executive function and challenging perfectionism. I also discuss the importance of shifting our mindset to one of growth, in order to keep us moving forward to those big goals we have for ourselves.

Remember, self-sabotage is a common human experience, and it's okay to encounter it. By understanding the ways self-sabotage shows up in your life and taking intentional actions to move forward, you can break free from its grip and create the outcomes you truly desire.

Take one step at a time, and you'll see progress towards your goals. Be patient, be persistent and remember, you've got this!