Taming the Sneaky Monster: 7 Steps to Recognize Self-Sabotage

photo provided by ColorJoy Stock

Hey, beautiful! It’s a bright new day, and we're ready to hit the ground running. But wait, have you ever felt like you’re on the verge of something big, and then – BAM! – something pulls you back? If yes, you, my sister, have met the sneaky little monster called 'Self-Sabotage'. But don’t fret! We’ve all been there. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, put on our detective hats, and uncover the signs of self-sabotage.

1. Tuning into Your Inner Chatterbox

So, let’s talk about that little voice inside your head. The one that’s like a running commentary on a 24-hour news channel? Yep, that's the one. Now, ask yourself, what’s it saying? Is it cheering you on, or is it acting like a constant critic? If it’s more of the latter, sis, that’s your first sign of self-sabotage. 

The tricky thing about this inner critic is that it can disguise itself as 'just being real.' But remember, there's a difference between being self-aware and being self-deprecating. Learn to recognize when your inner voice is leading you astray, and start challenging those negative narrations. You're the co-author here with the Author of All. It's time to write a script that lifts you up, not pulls you down because His plan for you is one full of hope!

2. The Procrastination Station

We've all been there, right? The tasks pile up, and instead of tackling them head-on, you're watching the latest season of your favorite show. But if you're always pushing off what you need to do today to tomorrow, you might have boarded the procrastination station, a favorite hotspot for self-sabotage. 

Procrastination can feel like a cozy blanket, but it's a sneaky little monster. It's like quicksand. The more you squirm, the deeper you sink. So, if you're forever delaying tasks that lead you toward your goals, it's time to step off the train. Start with small tasks, break the bigger ones down, and soon you'll see procrastination waving you goodbye from the rearview mirror.

3. Comfort Zone Confinement

It’s nice to snuggle in the comfy cocoon of familiarity, isn't it? But if you're perpetually living in your comfort zone, refusing to step out even when opportunities arise, you might be in a self-sabotage lockdown. 

The comfort zone is the safe zone. But growth happens in the wild. It's all about taking risks, facing challenges, and embracing the unknown. If you're shying away from opportunities out of fear of discomfort, it's time to break free. Remember, just one step outside your comfort zone, and you're already growing!

4. Excuse Factory Activation

Are you constantly finding reasons not to do something that could lead to personal growth or success? Is your brain an excuse factory, working overtime to churn out reason after reason for why you can't or shouldn't pursue your goals? If this sounds familiar, you're likely dealing with self-sabotage.

Excuses often masquerade as rationality, making it tricky to identify them for what they are. But, my friend, they're roadblocks you've built yourself. Break them down, brick by brick. Remember, an excuse-free journey is a joy ride toward your dreams.

5. The Perfectionist's Parade

Now, this one's a master of disguise. Striving for quality and aiming for your best is one thing, but waiting for things to be flawless before you even start? That’s a self-sabotage parade led by perfectionism. It's like waiting for all the traffic lights to turn green before leaving home - it's just not going to happen!

Don't let the fear of imperfection keep you stuck at the starting line. Perfection is a pursuit, not a starting point. The road to success is paved with mistakes and learning. So, start, stumble, learn, and then march ahead. This one has probably been my most consistent battle to overcome.

6. Fear of Success

Sounds strange, doesn't it? Why would anyone fear success? But believe it or not, it's more common than you think. Success brings change and high expectations, and sometimes that's scarier than failure.

If you find yourself recoiling when success is within reach, that's self-sabotage playing hide-and-seek. It's okay to be nervous about success, but don't let that stop you from reaching for it. You're capable of handling whatever comes your way, even the wonderful wave of success.

7. Self-Neglect

Do you find yourself at the bottom of your to-do list? Are you always prioritizing others' needs over your own? Neglecting self-care is like a wolf in sheep's clothing - a significant sign of self-sabotage that's often overlooked.

Whether it's rest, nutrition, exercise, or some quality 'me-time,' self-care fuels your journey toward your goals. It's not selfish; it's necessary. So, make yourself a priority. After all, you can't pour from an empty cup!

Remember, recognizing self-sabotage is the first powerful step towards kicking it to the curb. Unmask it, confront it, and watch as you propel yourself toward growth and success. You're a radiant gem, and nothing, especially not self-sabotage, should dim your shine. So, gear up, step on the gas, and let's race toward your dreams. Finally, tell self-sabotage to kick rocks and mean it! IYKYK