In this podcast, Andrea McTague and Zac Erickson dissect the human brain to explain why we often act against our own interests and how to get back in the driver’s seat.
Have you ever found yourself on the cusp of a significant breakthrough or achievement, only to suddenly act in a way that prevents your progress? If so, you’ve experienced self-sabotage, a phenomenon where one’s behaviour intentionally hinders their long-term success. This complex behaviour can manifest in various forms, from procrastination and perfectionism to self-medication and negative self-talk. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to overcome self-sabotage, and one such method is the Shift Protocol.
The Shift Protocol is an innovative therapeutic approach designed to systematically eliminate Limiting Beliefs, the often unconscious convictions that narrow our thoughts and behaviours. In the case of self-sabotage, Limiting Beliefs might include thoughts like “I don’t deserve success,” or “If I try, I’ll only fail.” The Shift Protocol addresses these through a process called Reconditioning via Exposure & Integration (REI), or Reprocessing, leading to significant behavioural change.
The first step in this process is identification.
Recognizing the beliefs that lead to self-sabotage is essential. This might involve reflecting on past instances of self-sabotage and the thoughts or feelings that preceded them. It requires a level of self-awareness and honesty, but it’s a critical step in initiating change.
Once these Limiting Beliefs are identified, the Shift Protocol uses exposure to challenge them. This process involves creating situations where one can confront these beliefs in a safe, therapeutic environment. If a person believes they’ll fail if they try, they might be encouraged to take on a new challenge and experience the potential outcomes. This exposure helps to weaken the power of these beliefs and opens up the possibility for new, more empowering thoughts.
Integration follows exposure. In this phase, new, positive beliefs are solidified and incorporated into the individual’s daily life.
With the belief that failure is inevitable now challenged, the person might adopt a new belief, such as “Even if I fail, I can learn and grow.” Repeatedly experiencing and reinforcing this belief helps to integrate it into the person’s mindset, replacing the old, Limiting Belief.
But the Shift Protocol doesn’t stop there.
It encourages continual self-reflection and self-evaluation to identify and challenge any new Limiting Beliefs that may arise. It’s not a one-time fix but rather a lifelong strategy for personal growth and development.
In conclusion, self-sabotage doesn’t have to be a life sentence.
With the Shift Protocol, it’s possible to identify, challenge, and replace the Limiting Beliefs that lead to self-defeating behaviours. It promotes a new way of thinking, one that encourages self-belief, growth, and the understanding that everyone deserves success. Self-sabotage can be overcome, and with the Shift Protocol, the path to change is clear. Don’t let your unconscious beliefs hold you back. Take the step towards empowerment and shift your narrative today.