In this article we examine why we self sabotage, and look at 5 ways that we can keep self sabotage at bay.
We all want to be productive. In fact, many of us even wake up in the morning with all kinds of enthusiasm for the projects we want to get done during the day.
Now fast forward a few hours, and suddenly we drag ourselves home at night wondering where the day went, feeling like we never accomplished anything at all.
If this sounds familiar to you, you’re not alone. Most people feel this way at least sometimes.
The trick is to realise that this isn’t something entirely outside of your control.
Sure, things will happen that can derail you, but more often than not, you’re reaping the fruits of self-sabotage.
You’ve derailed yourself through your own negative self-talk.
How to get past this? In order to keep self sabotage at bay, start with these easy tips:
1. Keep Self Sabotage At Bay - Listen To Music
It’s hard to get yourself going if your mood is what’s dragging. Thankfully this is a quick fix.
Put on some music you love, perhaps something fast-paced and catchy for a quick pick-me-up and watch your productivity soar.
Alternatively, you may want to calm down - so pick something slow moving and relaxing.
Try whatever works for you!
2. Get up and Move
Like listening to music, putting your body into motion will build your energy levels (so long as you’re not trying to run a marathon).
Dance around the room, take a brisk walk or try a few jumping jacks to get the blood flowing.
Then tackle your task again, wide-awake and energised.
On the other hand if you’re hyped up, take some deep breaths and take a lie-down. Whatever works for you!
3. Keep Self Sabotage At Bay - Look Inward
Say you find your mind racing and yourself unable to concentrate on what you’re going. What you need is some quiet time.
Try meditation to slow things down. Find a quiet place, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing.
Take deep breaths, nice and slow, and focus yourself on the present until you feel calm again.
4. Reassess What’s Important
It might be you’re not getting things done because you no longer find the value in your goal.
If this seems to be the case, take some time to ask yourself some very crucial questions about why you’re on this journey.
It might be you either need to shift your goal to something else entirely or, at the very least, adjust the outcome to serve your present needs.
It’s important to reassess your goals periodically.
5. Keep Self Sabotage At Bay - Contribute
When all else fails, if you do not feel your work has value, offer to help someone else. You could become an advisor or a mentor.
Mentoring is one of those win-win situations where you bring your life skills and experience to help someone else who truly needs it.
At the same time, you will rediscover your passion through the act of teaching others what you know.
If you do all the above, then it’s bye-bye 'self-sabotage' and hello 'accomplishment.' Soon you’ll be more productive than ever!