Sometimes we’re so used to doing certain things, we mistake them to be normal and right. Talking about self-destructive habits doesn’t come easy as it will definitely make each one of us vulnerable. But if we keep on avoiding dealing with these behaviors, we’re running the risk of ruining our lives and letting the bad habits consume us. Don’t make the mistake of neglecting!
Wallowing in self-pity
Not everything in life will come easy. Every problem that comes your way is there for a reason and ultimately, overcoming these bumps on the road are going to make you a better person. Now if you just stand there and take all of it and feel sorry for yourself instead of finding ways to win, self-pity will eat you alive. Fight, lick your wounds, and move on from the problem.
Pushing other people away
Self-destructive people tend to become socially inactive. They would stop showing up for birthday parties and get-togethers without even so much as an explanation. What they need to understand is that as human beings, we need the friendship and support of other people to be able to navigate the treacherous waters that is life. You’re not doing yourself a favor by keeping everything that’s bothering you a secret. Remember that your family and friends always have your back and unloading a burden on people you trust the most lightens the load on your shoulders.
Physical and mental neglect
Maybe it’s not a job related problem, maybe you’re just too lenient with yourself letting sleepless nights become a habit, refusing to move from your bed, or even dwelling in stress and anxiety. Being tired mentally and physically is a frustrating feeling but you don’t have to power through with a foggy mind. Give yourself time to recuperate and rest. Book that vacation or take some time off work. Take the opportunity to free your mind with all the worries and get that peaceful sleep.
Self-doubt and forced incompetence
Common self-destructive behaviors are self-doubt and forced incompetence. In both cases, a self-destructive person is reinforcing upon themselves that they can’t achieve certain tasks because they are not good enough when they are, in fact, perfectly capable. You need to gain confidence in yourself and in your abilities because let’s face it, no one else is going to do it for you. So the next time you’re responsible for something, look at your reflection in the mirror and tell yourself you’ve got this!
Laziness, excuses, and procrastination
Yes, laziness is a self-destructive behavior. You’re not getting anything done! Granted there will be days when the motivation meter will be at its lowest but if it’s been a week (or two weeks) of putting off work and daydreaming, something’s gotta change. Sit down with yourself and do some serious self evaluating. It will save you trouble in the long run.
Complaining too much
Complaints are a part of human nature but excessive complaining is just unacceptable. It encourages a negative energy and that could be the most contagious and dangerous thing. Pretty soon you’ll notice almost everyone around you is complaining and you’re all stuck in a merry-go-round of discontent. Always look for the beauty in things but definitely know when to draw the line.
Judging other people
The thing we hate the most is being judged right off the bat. We’re pegged as someone we’re not by people who barely know us. If you agree with this then it’s not fair to judge other people too. Remember the golden rule: do not do unto others what you do not want others do unto you. If we live in a society where everyone is accepted and understood, what a better world it would be!
Neglecting to process your feelings
The Pixar movie Inside Out couldn’t have explained this part better. Joy, the character, was all over the place making sure their human was always happy and content — even when she shouldn’t be. Joy’s dominance made all the other emotions take the back seat and in doing so, she withheld from the child the chance to feel the things she needed to. You need to feel your sadness, pain, grief, and anger. Once the cloud of emotion lifts, everything will be so much clearer.
If you find yourself guilty to any of the points above, it’s not too late. You can start by evaluating yourself and then listing the self-destructive behaviors you have and what you can do to change it. Start a journal and document your daily progress, ask your friends for support. It’s not impossible to turn your life around! Just believe that you can and commit to it.
What other self-destructive habits have we missed? Share them with us below!
