Posted on March 24, 2025

Do you ever feel like you’re your own worst enemy when it comes to health goals? Self-sabotage might be the culprit—but myths about it could be keeping you stuck. As a health coach and the heart behind Seeds of Balance, I’m here to bust the top self-sabotage myths and show you how my coaching can help you break free and unlock your potential.

This isn’t about blame or willpower; it’s about clarity and growth. Ready to stop holding yourself back? Let’s dive in.

Want a quick win? Grab my free 4-Step Self-Sabotage Breaker to start today!


What Is Self-Sabotage, Really?

Self-sabotage is when your actions—or inactions—undermine your own goals, like skipping workouts or overeating despite wanting to feel better. It’s sneaky, common, and often misunderstood. Let’s clear up the myths and set you on a path to success.


Myth #1: Self-Sabotage Means You Don’t Care

The biggest myth? If you sabotage yourself, you must not want it badly enough.

The Truth

It’s not about caring—it’s about patterns. A 2020 study in Personality and Individual Differences (source) ties self-sabotage to fear of failure, not lack of desire.

How a Health Coach Helps

One client, Alex (name changed), thought he didn’t care about fitness—until we uncovered his fear of not measuring up. My coaching turned that around. Ready to dig deeper? Book a free discovery call.

Try It

Ask: What’s really stopping me? See my goal-setting tips.


Myth #2: It’s Just Laziness

Think self-sabotage is sloth in disguise? Not quite.

The Truth

It’s often protection, not laziness. Research from Journal of Behavioral Decision Making 2019 (source) shows it’s a subconscious shield against disappointment.

How a Health Coach Helps

I’ve helped clients see procrastination as a sign, not a flaw. We swapped self-criticism for action—explore my coaching.

Try It

Replace “I’m lazy” with “I’m scared”—then act anyway. Check my motivation hacks.


Myth #3: You Can’t Change It

Some believe self-sabotage is a fixed trait. Wrong.

The Truth

It’s a habit you can break. A 2021 Cognitive Therapy and Research study (source) found awareness and support shift self-sabotaging behaviors fast.

How a Health Coach Helps

My client Mia thought she’d always skip healthy meals. We rewired her habits—she’s thriving now.

Try It

Pick one small goal and stick to it today. My habit-building guide has more.


Myth #4: It Only Hurts Big Goals

Think self-sabotage just tanks marathons or diets? Think again.

The Truth

It hits daily life too—skipping sleep, avoiding self-care. A 2018 Psychological Bulletin review (source) links it to lower well-being overall.

How a Health Coach Helps

I help clients spot small sabotages—like late-night scrolling—and fix them. Book a call.

Try It

Notice one tiny sabotage today and tweak it. See my daily wellness post.


Myth #5: It’s All Your Fault

Feel like self-sabotage is your personal failing? It’s not.

The Truth

It’s often rooted in past experiences or stress, not character. A 2022 Journal of Personality study (source) ties it to learned coping mechanisms.

How a Health Coach Helps

I’ve guided clients to let go of blame. One said, “Irit helped me see it’s not me—it’s my old story.”

Try It

Write down a past moment that shaped your habits. My self-compassion guide can help.


Myth #6: Self-Sabotage Is Obvious

Think you’d spot it easily? Not always.

The Truth

It’s subtle—like “forgetting” gym clothes or overcommitting. A 2020 Behavior Research and Therapy study (source) shows it hides in routine choices.

How a Health Coach Helps

My clients learn to catch sneaky sabotages—like perfectionism—and pivot. See my programs.

Try It

List three ways you delay progress. Read my hidden obstacles post.


Myth #7: You Don’t Need Help to Stop

Believe you should fix self-sabotage solo? You don’t have to.

The Truth

Support accelerates change. A 2021 Health Psychology Open study (source) found coaching doubles success rates.

How a Health Coach Helps

I’ve walked clients from stuck to unstoppable with tailored plans. You’re stronger with a guide—book a free call.

Try It

Ask a friend to cheer one goal. My support network tips have more.


How to Beat Self-Sabotage With Coaching

Here’s your kickstart plan:

  1. Spot the Pattern: Name one way you sabotage.
  2. Dig Deeper: Why do you do it?
  3. Take a Step: Act against it once.
  4. Celebrate Wins: Even small ones count.
  5. Get Support: Don’t go it alone.

Grab my free 4-Step Self-Sabotage Breaker—perfect for [Your City] locals or online warriors!


Why Self-Sabotage Matters in 2025

In a year of big dreams, self-sabotage can dim your shine. As a health coach in [Your City], I see clients ready to break free—this is your moment.

Ready to Unlock Your Potential?

My coaching helps you bust self-sabotage, build habits, and soar—online “Irit turned my ‘can’ts’ into ‘cans’!”—Client Testimonial. Book a free discovery call.

Which self-sabotage myth surprised you? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear!