Listen, I don't like to brag, but I'm pretty good at something: I've been thwarting my progress for a long time. When I am on the cusp of accomplishing something great, I sabotage success. I'm even good at sabotaging myself from the very beginning of a project or goal.
What can I say? I'm committed!
Maybe you're also into self-sabotage. That's awesome! But what if you've noticed that your recent efforts at bringing yourself down aren't as effective as they once were? If so, you might be looking for some ways to upgrade your sabotage practice. Got you covered.
As a longtime expert, I offer you these tips for your very own sabotage efforts -- all at no charge!
Free Tips for Self-Sabotage. Use At Will.
Overthink every decision, analyzing every possible outcome until you're paralyzed by indecision. Why act when you can sit there, stuck in an endless loop of "what ifs"?
Engage in negative self-talk, criticizing yourself harshly for every mistake or imperfection. This erodes your self-esteem and confidence, making it difficult to take risks or try new things.
Neglect self-care and prioritize work over your physical and mental well-being. Who needs sleep, exercise, or relaxation when you can push yourself to the brink of exhaustion?
Refuse to ask for help or support, even when you're struggling. Admitting vulnerability is a sign of weakness. Suffer in silence instead.
Constantly seek perfection in every aspect of your life. If it's not flawless, it's not worth doing. This mindset will ensure you never finish anything and always feel inadequate.
Dwell on past mistakes and failures, allowing them to define your present and future. Why learn from your experiences when you can remain stuck?
Avoid setting boundaries and saying "no" to requests that drain your time and energy. Overcommit yourself to the point of burnout, because your needs always come last.
Constantly chase external validation and approval rather than developing a stronger sense of self. Let others dictate your worth and make decisions for you.
Engage in all-or-nothing thinking. If you can't do something perfectly, there's no point in trying. This mindset will help you remain stuck and stagnant.
Avoid vulnerability and emotional intimacy in relationships. Keep people at a distance to prevent potential hurt or rejection, even if it means feeling lonely and disconnected.
Hold onto grudges and resentment, refusing to forgive others or yourself. Let bitterness and anger build up, draining your energy and joy.
Surround yourself with negative people who drain your energy and bring you down. It’s always a great way to feel worse off!
Compare your behind-the-scenes struggles to everyone else's highlight reel on social media. Let envy and self-doubt consume you rather than focus on your unique journey and progress.
Procrastinate on essential tasks, waiting until the last minute to start, or even missing deadlines altogether. This creates stress, panic, and adrenal fatigue -- all significant factors for self-sabotage.
Practice codependency. Base your self-worth on what other people think and say about you. If they're happy, you're happy. If they're upset, think long and hard about what you did to cause it.
Keep up the good work of Self-Sabotage!
Thanks to Chris Guillebeau's email letter on Self-Sabotage. It was too good not to share (and make a few additions as well). You can sign up for his "A Year of Mental Health" at www.yearofmentalhealth.com
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