Breaking Free from Self-Sabotage - Overcoming Fear for Lasting Change
"When people are determined, they can overcome anything”. Nelson Mandela
Why do we Self sabotage?
Self-sabotage is allowing our fears to get in the way of what we know is for our greatest good.
Have you often found yourself in situations where you feel such a fear of not succeeding that you allow doubt, procrastination or distraction to get the better of you and hinder your growth and happiness?
It may manifest in various aspects of life, from job interviews and exercise classes to social events and adopting healthier habits.
Self-sabotage manifests in various ways, from failing to allocate ample time for preparation to embarking on a journey with inadequate equipment, or letting the priorities of others overshadow our own. Excuses abound – the shirt neglected on the ironing board, elusive trainers nowhere to be found, unruly children demanding attention, the relentless ticking clock, or an unforeseen phone call making us late.
To break free from self sabotage , it’s crucial to be really honest with ourselves and to recognise when fear is driving our actions (or lack of action).
We often project these fears onto external factors making it seem as though circumstances were beyond our control. We allow in distractions as a convenient excuse. This not only affects our self esteem but impacts our relationships with others too. With every failed attempt to do the thing you want to do, you "prove" to yourself that you can't or shouldn't do it.
Steps to Overcoming Self-Sabotage:
- Align with Your Values: Ensure your pursuits align with your beliefs and values e.g. does this thing really excite me or am I doing it to fit in/follow the crowd? When your goals resonate with your authentic self, success feels more achievable.
- Journal Your Thoughts: Explore your negative self-talk by journaling. Honest reflections help identify deep-seated beliefs that contribute to self-sabotage. Where do your fears come from? Are you afraid that you will be compared to others or judged? What are you afraid of finding out about Yourself? Others? Life?
- Reframe and Boost Self-Esteem: Work on reframing self-sabotaging patterns and negative self-talk. What new behaviours can you put into place? Develop Empowering beliefs and Mantras to reinforce positive thinking.
- Break Down Goals: Prevent overwhelm by breaking down your goals into manageable actions. This approach makes the journey more achievable and less daunting.
- Establish Non Negotiables: Set boundaries to allow you to make best use of your time and energy. Communicate non negotiables to those around you, creating a supportive environment for your endeavours.
- Acknowledge Achievements: Celebrate your accomplishments. Find joy and excitement in your journey, and don't forget to reward yourself for milestones achieved.
Overcoming self-sabotage is a transformative journey that requires self-reflection, intentional actions, and a commitment to breaking free from fear. By aligning with our true desires, reframing negative thoughts, and implementing positive habits, we pave the way for lasting change and personal growth. Embrace your journey, acknowledge your achievements, and let the courage within propel you towards a more fulfilling life. 💫