The Mindset Mentor

Why You Self-Sabotage and How to Stop

Feb 28, 2025

Discover the intriguing reasons behind self-sabotage and the 'extinction burst' phenomenon. Learn practical strategies to replace unhealthy habits with healthier ones. Dive into the necessity of overcoming distractions to build better habits and enhance focus. Explore the psychology behind breaking free from toxic relationships and harmful patterns. Embrace the resistance you face during personal growth, viewing it as a sign of progress while celebrating small victories along the way.

17:27

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Quick takeaways

Self-sabotage often manifests as an extinction burst, where old habits intensify before significant change can occur in individuals.

Breaking harmful habits requires conscious substitution with healthier alternatives and recognizing the importance of celebrating small victories during the process.

Deep dives

Understanding Self-Sabotage

Self-sabotage often stems from a psychological phenomenon known as the extinction burst, where an individual's brain makes a final intense effort to return to old habits before accepting change. This concept, rooted in operant conditioning principles, reveals that when expected rewards are removed, individuals may initially intensify their old behaviors rather than relinquish them. For example, someone attempting to quit emotional eating might find cravings for comfort food surge just as they start to make progress, reflecting their brain's struggle against change. Recognizing this phenomenon is crucial for anyone seeking meaningful self-improvement, as it is a sign that one is on the brink of significant transformation.

Intro

2min

Understanding Self-Sabotage: The Extinction Burst Phenomenon

8min

Overcoming Distractions to Build Better Habits

2min

Overcoming Self-Sabotage

8min

Embracing Resistance in Personal Growth

2min

Why do you keep sabotaging your own success? Just when you're about to break a bad habit, it comes back even stronger. That’s not a coincidence. In this episode, I break down exactly why this happens and how to push through it so you can finally create the change you want in your life.

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