Struggling with self-sabotage?
Wondering if you might somehow be the cause of your own worst problems?
Worried that you are the common denominator?
Although I can’t leap through the screen and tell you for sure whether or not you suffer from self-sabotage, I can bring your awaress to the common triggers and symptoms so you can decide for youself. Then, I can arm you with the best next steps to gently recover and step into your power to achieve more goals.
If you are worried that you might be the real reason your business isn’t where you thought it would be by now, you owe it to yourself to honestly read through these lists and reflect on your life. We can’t heal what we won’t acknowlege, right?
30 Common Triggers Of Self-Sabotage
- High-Stress Situations
When stress levels rise, it can lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. - Fear of the Unknown
Facing uncertain situations can trigger self-sabotage as a way to avoid discomfort. - Pressure to Perform
High expectations, whether self-imposed or from others, can lead to self-sabotage. - Past Trauma
Unresolved trauma can resurface during times of growth or change, leading to self-sabotage. - Negative Feedback
Receiving criticism can trigger self-doubt and self-sabotaging actions. - Major Life Changes
Transitions like a new job, moving, or a relationship change can provoke self-sabotage. - Fear of Failure
The prospect of not succeeding can trigger avoidance behaviors. - Fear of Success
The responsibilities or changes that come with success can be daunting and trigger self-sabotage. - Perfectionism
The need to be perfect can lead to procrastination or avoidance to avoid failure. - Comparison to Others
Comparing yourself to others can trigger feelings of inadequacy and self-sabotage. - Feeling Overwhelmed
When tasks feel too big or numerous, it can trigger a shutdown response. - Imposter Syndrome
Doubting your own abilities can trigger behaviors to avoid being “found out.” - Unclear Goals
Not having a clear direction can lead to self-sabotage due to a lack of focus. - Lack of Support
Feeling unsupported can trigger feelings of isolation and self-sabotaging actions. - Perceived Lack of Control
Feeling like you have no control over outcomes can lead to self-sabotage. - Unresolved Emotional Issues
Emotions from past experiences can trigger self-sabotage when similar situations arise. - Chronic Anxiety
Ongoing anxiety can trigger avoidance and self-sabotage to escape discomfort. - Self-Criticism
Being overly critical of oneself can trigger a cycle of self-sabotage. - Fear of Rejection
The fear of being rejected by others can trigger avoidance behaviors. - Health Problems
Physical or mental health issues can trigger self-sabotage as a coping mechanism. - Financial Pressure
Stress about money can trigger behaviors that undermine financial stability. - Relationship Issues
Stress or conflict in relationships can trigger self-sabotaging behaviors. - Environmental Distractions
A chaotic or distracting environment can trigger a loss of focus and self-sabotage. - Lack of Time Management
Poor time management can trigger feelings of overwhelm and self-sabotage. - Unrealistic Expectations
Setting unattainable goals can trigger frustration and self-sabotage. - Fear of Change
Resistance to change can trigger self-sabotage to maintain the status quo. - Negative Peer Influence
Being around negative influences can trigger self-sabotaging behaviors. - Personal Loss
Grieving or loss can trigger emotional responses that lead to self-sabotage. - Job Dissatisfaction
Being unhappy at work can trigger self-sabotaging behaviors related to career goals. - Lack of Routine
An unstructured day can trigger procrastination and self-sabotage.
Identifying and understanding these triggers can help you develop strategies to manage and overcome self-sabotage, leading to more meaningful goal achievement.
30 Common Symptoms Of Self-Sabotage
- Fear of Failure
The anxiety that you might not succeed can lead you to avoid trying altogether. - Fear of Success
Concerns about the responsibilities or changes that come with success can hold you back. - Low Self-Esteem
Believing you’re not good enough can prevent you from taking action toward your goals. - Perfectionism
The need for everything to be perfect can lead to procrastination or avoidance. - Overwhelm
Feeling overwhelmed by the size or complexity of a task can cause you to shut down. - Procrastination
Delaying tasks because they seem too difficult or daunting. - Negative Self-Talk
Internal dialogue that is critical or dismissive can undermine your confidence and motivation. - Lack of Clear Goals
Not having clear, actionable goals can leave you feeling directionless. - Comfort Zones
Preferring to stay within your comfort zone rather than taking risks can hinder progress. - Past Failures
Replaying past failures in your mind can discourage you from trying again. - Comparison to Others
Comparing your progress to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and demotivation. - Lack of Support
Not having a support system can make it harder to stay motivated and accountable. - Fear of Judgment
Worrying about what others will think can stop you from pursuing your goals. - Perceived Lack of Control
Feeling that you have no control over outcomes can lead to inaction. - Perfectionist Tendencies
Striving for unattainable standards can result in constant dissatisfaction and avoidance. - Fear of Change
Resistance to change, even if it’s positive, can lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. - Imposter Syndrome
Doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud can prevent you from embracing opportunities. - Unresolved Trauma
Past traumas or unresolved emotional issues can impact your ability to move forward. - Self-Doubt
Constantly questioning your abilities can paralyze your efforts. - Lack of Planning
Not having a clear plan can lead to confusion and procrastination. - Financial Worries
Concerns about money can make you hesitant to invest time or resources in your goals. - Health Issues
Physical or mental health problems can impact your energy and motivation. - Relationship Problems
Stress and issues in personal relationships can distract you from your goals. - Perceived Lack of Skills
Believing you lack the necessary skills or knowledge can prevent you from starting. - Environmental Distractions
A chaotic or distracting environment can make it hard to focus on your goals. - Lack of Time Management
Poor time management skills can lead to procrastination and missed opportunities. - Fear of Rejection
The fear that others will reject your ideas or efforts can keep you from trying. - Self-Criticism
Being overly critical of yourself can undermine your confidence and efforts. - Unrealistic Expectations
Setting unattainable goals can lead to frustration and giving up. - Lack of Motivation
Not feeling motivated can make it difficult to take the necessary steps toward your goals.