Why do we self-sabotage?

Hey!

How can I lose a pair of trainers? Granted I have a fair few pairs - a slight obsession, but also they are pretty essential for my work. But they are my favourite walking ones and they had my favourite Superfeet insoles in them that felt perfect and now nothing feels the same... in fact my walking has reduced over the last 2 weeks because I want THESE trainers - sounds a bit mad, they're just trainers right? But they were part of my system and now i'm spending more time looking for them every time I want to walk - I'm essentially sabotaging my own efforts here - but where the f*** are my trainers?? I have literally looked everywhere, 10 times over... even the freezer (i'm not joking!)

ANYWAY, moving on...

Last week, we tackled the not-so-glamorous truth that discipline beats motivation (every time). But even with the best plans, habits, and intentions, many of us still find ourselves knee-deep in snack wrappers wondering “What happened?” Enter: self-sabotage. That baffling habit of blocking our own goals with full awareness and a side of regret.

So… why do we do it? Often, it’s fear. Or old patterns. Or a brain that’s just trying to keep you “safe” (even if safe means staying stuck).

Ever set a plan, stuck to it for a bit, then mysteriously found yourself face-deep in a packet of Hobnobs? Self-sabotage isn’t about being weak or lazy — it’s often your brain trying to protect you from discomfort. Annoying, since that 'protection' is usually what gets in the way of your goals.

You start off motivated, making smoothies and doing squats like a champ. But then life happens: work stress, sleep deprivation, hormones doing the cha-cha — and suddenly it’s like you’re possessed by the ghost of Christmas chocolate.

The truth? Self-sabotage is usually fear in disguise. Fear of failure, fear of success (yes, that’s a thing), or fear of change. So instead of beating yourself up, get curious.

Ask: What am I actually afraid of here?

Key takeaway: You’re not broken. You’re human. Stop trying to ‘get motivated’ and start getting honest.

Tips to Try:

• 1. Notice your patterns – Keep a log for a week. When do you self-sabotage? Stress? Boredom? Hormonal week from hell?
• 2. Change the script – When the voice in your head says, 'You’ve ruined everything,' reply with, 'Nice try, Karen.'
• 3. Reduce the drama – Missed a workout? Ate off-plan? Just do the next right thing. No internal meltdown necessary.
• 4. Focus on identity, not outcomes – Ask: What would someone who prioritises her health do right now? Then do that.

This week, ditch the 'all or nothing' mindset and aim for 'slightly better than yesterday.' When you spot a self-sabotage moment, pause and choose again.

Now if anybody has any bright ideas as to where my trainers are, please enlighten me!

Have a great week

Danni

*EDIT... I FOUND THE TRAINERS!! Well actually Em did, shoved under the desk in Jakes room (a room I try very hard to avoid!) Normality has resumed, daily walking done with ease and no stress because I'm not having to look for said trainers! Systems... they're all good until they break. We'll look at 'Plan B's' another time!

In the meantime why don't you try this workout

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