Stop Self-Sabotaging: How to Get Out of Your Own Way

We’re all guilty of self-sabotaging and standing in our own way. When we do this, however, it can be difficult to see past ourselves to overcome it. Especially in this COVID-19 era, we may be lacking motivation to follow through on our dreams and goals, or may be struggling to get creative and move forward. To help you think less, stress less, and do more, take a look at these tips to get out of your own way.

 

Name your need

We all have five emotional survival needs: safety, freedom, love, competency, worthiness. These needs may not be something you think about actively on a day-to-day basis, but they subconsciously drive your behavior. You have created rules that let you know when your needs are being met. When they aren’t, one of your rules is broken, and you may act in a way that defends it. Think about your situation. Which need is driving your behavior? Perhaps you’re about to get a big promotion at work, but you feel as if it will eat into your free time, sacrificing your freedom. Your lips may be saying promotion but your actions may be saying otherwise. To align yourself, work through your needs and what could be blocking them.

 

Think about the outcome

For many of us, we want to accomplish the goal without doing any of the hard work it takes to get there. When you don’t feel like getting up at 6 a.m. for a workout, focus on the outcome you’re seeking: better health, vitality, strength, mental clarity. Think about how the outcome will make your life better, no matter how large or small. If the outcome doesn’t excite you, perhaps it’s time to reconsider your goals or the strategy to reaching those goals.

 

Hang up your hopes of perfection

Perfection is a theoretical concept that simply doesn’t exist in reality. It’s possible that you are putting off accomplishing your goals because you want to wait until the time is right or the conditions are at their best. We hate to say it, but it may never be the right time. The best time to move towards your goals is here and now. Procrastinating will not achieve anything. Imperfect attempts will get you started.

 

When life gets frustrating, meditate

Overthinking can cloud the brain, and frustration can leave us feeling exhausted. A great way to calm down is to sit in a comfortable spot, relax, and take some deep breaths for ten minutes. Clear the mind and focus on following your breath in and out. Observe what it feels like to let go of feelings and thoughts.

 

Ready to start feeling your best again? Contact Genesis Performance. We will help you fit in exercise and wellness practices into your current schedule and inspire you to reach optimal health. We help clients across the nation virtually, and are ready to get started today.

Jenna Dillon

Founder & CEO

Jenna is an Executive Coach committed to working with high performing individuals and companies who are up to exploring what they’re capable of achieving within their lives, careers, company culture and leadership. She is passionate about empowering her clients - standing with them and for them - so they have the tools to create extraordinary results.