Section 1.1: Lack of Clear Goals

One major issue is having an ambiguous idea of what you want from life. Engaging in activities that do not resonate with you can lead to wasted energy on trivial pursuits.

For instance, in 2020, I discovered that I was squandering my time in a job that brought me no joy, simply because it paid well and provided a comfortable environment. It took a personal loss and the onset of a pandemic for me to realize that job security is fleeting, and I was not gaining valuable experience.

This realization ignited a depression rooted in my unclear vision for the future. Crafting a new plan helped me regain my direction.

Section 1.2: Absence of Boundaries

Another challenge is failing to set boundaries. Agreeing to every request can take a toll on your emotional health and self-esteem.

In 2021, after spending three months planning a trip to Peru, I found myself saying yes to a friend's request to help with a film project just a week before my departure. My inability to decline led to exhaustion and anxiety, and ultimately, my friend ceased communication with me after I had to prioritize my own well-being over her demands.

Establishing boundaries is crucial for mental health; it is far better to decline requests than to compromise your peace.

The first video titled "7 Signs Of Self Sabotage" discusses the various ways we may be hindering our own success and offers insights into overcoming these patterns.

Section 1.3: Ignoring Your Limits

Disregarding your own needs can be damaging. It’s important to prioritize your physical and mental energy.

During 2021, I pushed myself to the brink, juggling two software development jobs along with side projects. I ignored the signs of burnout my body was signaling, convinced I could keep up this pace. However, continuous overexertion eventually takes its toll, and it is vital to listen to your body's warnings.

Section 1.4: Avoidance and Denial

Choosing to overlook issues that trouble you can exacerbate problems until they become unmanageable. The stress associated with ignoring these issues is often worse than facing them head-on.

I used to think that if I ignored a problem, it would eventually fade away. Unfortunately, these issues often kept me awake at night, causing concentration difficulties. In reality, the solutions were usually much simpler than I had imagined.

Section 1.5: Expecting Failure

Allowing yourself to believe that you will fail can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. Research indicates that positive thinking can significantly lower rates of depression and enhance overall well-being.

By focusing on success, you are more likely to recognize the best strategies to achieve your goals. Conversely, a mindset fixated on failure will lead you to discover ways to fail.

Section 1.6: Misalignment of Desires and Actions

Not pursuing what truly fulfills you can contribute to feelings of depression. This often occurs when individuals remain in jobs they dislike due to fear of failure or settle for unsatisfactory living situations.

I have learned that no amount of success in a career you dislike is worth sacrificing your happiness.

Section 1.7: Giving Up Too Soon

Experiencing disappointment can severely impact your self-esteem and enthusiasm for your dreams. It’s common to feel overwhelmed when things don’t go as planned, leading to a desire to quit.

To combat this, I allow myself to feel sad for a time, then I reflect on the reasons I started my journey and weigh the positives against the negatives. Often, the reasons that inspired me to begin are stronger than the obstacles I face.