An Electronic Mental Health Newsletter from Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. & Associates Volume 20, Number 4
When we interfere with our own success and prevent ourselves from reaching our goals, we engage in self-sabotage. These patterns are often subtle and automatic, yet they can have a powerful impact on our careers, relationships, and emotional well-being.
You may notice self-sabotage in procrastination, avoidance, perfectionism, or difficulty following through on commitments. While these behaviors may provide short-term relief, they often create long-term frustration and disappointment.
Just imagine what it would be like if you continued to self-sabotage. This month’s e-Letter provides information on understanding self-sabotage and offers some strategies for dealing with it. Our blog, Gentle Flow Yoga, can be found here.
WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?
Self-sabotage is often rooted in fears such as fear of failure, success, or judgment. For many, these patterns develop early in life, shaped by criticism, lack of encouragement, or difficult experiences.
Over time, negative beliefs such as “I’m not good enough” or “I’ll fail anyway” can take hold. Without realizing it, individuals may behave in ways that reinforce these beliefs often creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.
TAKE THE 5-QUESTION SELF-SABOTAGE QUIZ!
Answer Yes or No to each question:
- Do you frequently put off important tasks, even when you know they need to get done?
- Do you find yourself making excuses or avoiding responsibility when things feel overwhelming?
- Do you start projects with good intentions but struggle to follow through?
- Do you tend to be overly critical of yourself or fear making mistakes?
- Do you avoid opportunities because you are afraid of failing or even succeeding?
YOUR RESULTS
- 0–1 Yes Answers:
Occasional patterns may be present, but self-sabotage is likely not a major concern. - 2–3 Yes Answers:
Some self-sabotaging tendencies may be interfering with your progress. Increased awareness can help you make meaningful changes. - 4–5 Yes Answers:
Self-sabotage may be significantly impacting your life. Identifying and addressing these patterns can lead to substantial improvement.
A THOUGHT TO CONSIDER
What is required for many of us, paradoxical though it may sound, is the courage to tolerate happiness without self-sabotage… Nathaniel Branden
WHAT TO KNOW
- Self-sabotage creates obstacles that interfere with success
- It often involves procrastination, avoidance, and perfectionism
- It can lead to relationship, career, and financial difficulties
- These patterns are learned and can be changed
WHAT TO DO
- Recognize your patterns without blaming others
- Challenge negative thoughts and assumptions
- Set small, achievable goals
- Focus on progress rather than perfection
- Stay organized and accountable
- Seek professional support if patterns persist
WE CAN HELP
If you see yourself in these patterns, you are not alone and change is possible with the right support.
WE’RE HERE FOR YOU
Schedule a confidential consultation to talk through what you’re experiencing. We provide individual and family therapy, stress management, and treatment for anxiety and depression in both English and Spanish.
Call us: 954-755-2885 or email us at info@kimmelpsychology.com
Visit us: www.KimmelPsychology.com
Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D. P.A. and Associates
5551 N University Drive, Suite 202
Coral Springs, FL 33067
As always, we value your thoughts. If you would like to respond to this e-Letter, email your comments to DrKimmel@KimmelPsychology.com and we will publish them next month.
Till May…
The information provided in this electronic newsletter is not a substitute for professional treatment. It is the opinions of the writers and is provided solely for educational purposes. For mental health care, seek a qualified professional.
If you find this information helpful, please feel free to share it with others. If you received this e-Letter via email and no longer wish to receive them, please send an email to: DrKimmel@KimmelPsychology.com with Unsubscribe in the subject line.
© 2026 Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. and Associate
