The definition of sabotage is to ruin or disable deliberately and maliciously; it is to willfully destroy something or someone. Most don’t intend to sabotage themselves. In fact, much self-sabotaging behavior is disguised as coping mechanisms and false progress. Preparation is really procrastination and precaution is just a fear of moving forward. One of the greatest opponents you may ever face is you. Here are three prevalent ways you may be sabotaging yourself and some tips on how to stop!
Self-Doubt. Second guessing yourself and self-doubt are tremendously stifling. They are truly the inner-bullies that hold an individual both back and down. Self-doubt is an internal oppressor because it creates a sense of confusion, double-mindedness, and renders one hopeless. It is usually the result of not being consistently affirmed, a lack of opportunity to make sound decisions, and ongoing harsh criticism. It is vital to understand that the antithesis to self doubt is not knowing everything or perfectionism. The opposite of self doubt is confidence; and confidence is built on a track record. It is looking at the wins and wisdom gained along your journey and being at peace with who you are as a person.
Self-Indulgence. Pleasuring the senses can lead to delusion. While physical pleasure isn’t a bad thing, absent of inner contentment, it can become like a drug making you blind to what truly matters. Things like food, fame, and money can become just as addictive as any illegal (and legal) substances. The human body can never be truly satisfied from the outside in. Anything one uses to self-soothe inevitably develops into a crutch. Self-indulgence handicaps progress, productivity, and promotion. As mentioned, contentment is the remedy and it’s an inside job. It’s actually what most are looking for in external elements. Those who overeat, fill their life with material possessions, or give their bodies over to promiscuity are all seeking the same things: love, acceptance, and contentment.
Self-Comparison. Comparing yourself to someone else is not a matter of having what another person has but in finding value (and yes contentment) in what you already have. It’s not about feeling like someone else’s life is better than yours but about you not having the life you thought you would or should have; and perhaps that person appears to be living in the reality you thought would be yours. To compare oneself to another is revealing a level of dissatisfaction with self. It takes what you have for granted and is a tell-tale sign that you haven’t embraced the wonder and beauty of you and your journey. When you are able to grieve what you thought should be and discover the what is, self-comparison would seize to exist.
Self-sabotage is subtle and lethal, and many do not recognize when they are engaging in it. The more you consider what you do and (equally as important) why you do what you do, the sooner you position yourself to fight for yourself and not against yourself (and you stop being your own worst enemy).
LifeWork
Basesd on the article, set aside at least 10 minutes to consider the following:
Do I prevent myself from advancement (in mind, body, spirit, emotions, relationships, and in the marketplace)?
What is at least one behavior I engage in that doesn’t add long-term value (or brings destruction) to my life and progress (including my physical health, mental health, spiritual health, emotional health, the health of my relationships and in finances)?
What is the core reason of me engaging in this behavior? What am I really seeking when engaging in this behavior (behaviors include thoughts, speech, and action)?
What is at least one replacement behavior that would shift me in the direction I truly desire to go in (again, behaviors include thoughts, speech, and action)?
Be sure to journal your experience.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.