Self-sabotage is part of the experience of addiction. Every time an addict earnestly attempts to recover, then makes up a story of why they couldn’t recover, shouldn’t recover, or why using is better than recovering, they are sabotaging their opportunity to recover. Once they pick up a drug or a drink again, the sabotage is complete. Sabotage is the deliberate destruction, damage, or obstruction of reaching your goals, finding success, and being able to enjoy the best in life. Though sabotage is deliberate it is often unconscious. Most often, men do not realize they are sabotaging their efforts into which they are putting so much time and energy. Self-sabotage is a thought process, a personal belief, and a series of behaviors. When behaviors become problematic and get in the way of achieving goals, finding success, or enjoying the happiness life has to offer, they are sabotaging. Addiction is self-sabotage. Relapse is self-sabotage. Many other thought processes and behaviors can be self-sabotage. The longer we go without recognizing and defining our thoughts on self-sabotage the more unconscious and repetitive our self-sabotaging behaviors become. We cause ourselves a tremendous amount of pain and struggle that might otherwise be unnecessary. Unfortunately for addicts, it is often when the pain of a circumstance is at its most extreme that we are willing to create any kind of change. Sometimes, it is the pain of a circumstance which causes us to self-sabotage. Most often, self-sabotaging takes place in areas of our lives where we feel undeserving. Addiction and alcoholism are rooted in shame and guilt. It is hard for addicts and alcoholics to fully embrace their right to live, their right to happiness, and their right to success. Once they start regaining their life in a healthy way, they can start to self-sabotage because the psychology of their addiction is telling them they don’t deserve to succeed. Men can find fears of success and excuses for success in different areas of their life. Ultimately, it comes down to self-worth. When one feels worthy about themselves they are not going to feel like they don’t deserve to succeed. On the contrary, when one feels unworthy, they are going to feel like they don’t deserve to succeed. It’s important to understand that you are not alone. More people than just those who are struggling with addiction and alcoholism have a fear of success and self-sabotage because of it. You are not unsuccessful in your life. If you are approaching treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, that is success. There is a greater chance you have done successful things in your past than you never having had any kind of success in anything. You can overcome your fear of success and allow yourself to fully embrace and be deserving of everything good that life has to offer.
Oceanfront Recovery works with men to help them change their story to change their lives. We know your life is a success story. Let us show you the way. Offering residential treatment programs, intensive outpatient, detox, and specialized executive tracks, Oceanfront is the premiere choice for men’s treatment. Call us today for more information: 877.279.1777
