Author: Veronica Lichtenstein, LMHC
Jan 31, 2024
Our minds are undeniably powerful, serving as the driving force behind our aspirations and achievements. Yet, they can also become the very obstacle obstructing our path to success. Our self-talk, often underestimated, holds immense sway over our mental well-being. Engaging in self-criticism and maintaining a harsh inner dialogue can erode our self-esteem, a major contributor to self-sabotage, as negative self-talk often mirrors limiting beliefs we harbor about ourselves.
However, self-sabotage doesn't stop at negative self-talk; it can manifest in various forms. Procrastination and perfectionism are common manifestations. If you consistently delay tasks or set impossibly high standards, it's often rooted in a fear of failure and a subconscious avoidance of these tasks.
But why do we subject ourselves to this self-sabotage? At first glance, it appears irrational to hinder our own progress and prevent ourselves from living our best lives. As a therapist, I've had the privilege of listening to countless stories of how individuals navigate life's challenges, cope with sadness, loss, oppression, and tragedy. In the face of trauma, people may develop coping mechanisms and beliefs that provide a sense of safety and control. These mechanisms, often referred to as blocking beliefs, can encompass avoidance, denial, numbing, or self-blame. While these coping mechanisms may not be conducive to long-term health and growth, they serve as short-term protective measures.
In therapy, I work with individuals to identify how these blocking beliefs limit their ability to process and overcome traumatic experiences. By replacing these restrictive beliefs with more positive and adaptive ones, individuals can embark on a journey of healing and cease the self-sabotage. Therapeutic modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) are powerful tools for achieving this transformation.
For instance, a person who has undergone a traumatic event might hold a blocking belief like "I am weak and powerless." This belief could hinder them from seeking help or taking action to address the trauma. Through EMDR or CBT therapy, I help the individual challenge this belief by highlighting instances when they exhibited strength and resilience. Together, we explore alternative beliefs, such as "I am strong and resilient."
To aid self-reflection and awareness, here are some questions individuals can ask themselves if they suspect they are unknowingly erecting barriers to their recovery:
Do I believe I possess the strength or willpower to solve this problem?
Am I afraid that if I solve this problem, I will lose a part of my identity?
Do I perceive any danger in addressing this problem?
Do I anticipate negative consequences if I openly discuss this problem?
Limiting beliefs, whether conscious or unconscious, create self-imposed constraints that inhibit our ability to cope with stress and trauma. These beliefs can stem from past experiences, cultural or societal conditioning, or various sources. By undermining our confidence and motivation, they fuel self-sabotage. It is paramount to identify and challenge these beliefs to facilitate personal growth and success.