Self-Sabotage Through Negative Self-Talk

Humans can self-sabotage in various ways that hinder their success. Negative self-talk is one of many common behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to self-sabotage.

Negative Self-Talk: Engaging in critical or negative thoughts about oneself can erode confidence and lead to a lack of motivation.

1. 1. That devil on your shoulder telling you that you can’t when you actually can.
   2. That inner voice telling you that you are not good enough, not pretty enough, not strong enough, not smart enough, you’re not ready, and the list goes on.
   3. That voice can be unrelenting if not controlled.
   4. All too often we…
      • Overgeneralize – one bad moment is now the norm.
      • Catastrophize – turning a little thing into a huge thing regarding potential consequences.
      • Personalize – self-blame for events outside of our control.
      • Hold ourselves to unrealistic standards.
      • Discount the positive – focus on flaws vs achievement.

Remedies:

1. Question your negative thinking
2. Question the validity of the negative thought and reframe it in a more positive light
3. Self-awareness. Notice patterns of negative self-talk and the situations that trigger them.
4. Journal. Write down the negative thoughts, challenge them, or write an opposing positive affirmation
5. Surround yourself with positive people.
6. Take some time out for meditation. Calm your mind to reduce the negative self-talk.
7. And don’t be afraid to get help