One of the biggest challenges for women in business is when self-limiting thoughts get in the way of work. Here are some tips to stop self-sabotage and start self-success.
First, why is it essential for women in business to stop self-sabotage?
Self-sabotage is when we are so critical of our actions that it gets in the way of achieving success. Negative thoughts and self-doubt make it hard to move a business onwards and upwards.
These bad habits need to stop because a “success” mindset is vital in running a business. It is as important as the products and services you are offering, as well as the capitalization needed to start.
How can women in business recognize self-sabotage?
To recognize when you are self-sabotaging requires a lot of self-awareness.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Is your inner voice very critical with every decision you make?
Analyze your thoughts and check for negative speak. Being hard on yourself is a sure sign of self-sabotage.
- Do you believe you need to perfect specific skills to act?
Demanding perfection from yourself is a big red self-sabotage flag. Remember perfectionism does not exist and, thus not necessary to achieve business success.
- Do you procrastinate a lot?
Waiting until the last minute to act all the time is a problem. You are setting yourself up for failure because you are losing time.
- Are you afraid of criticism?
Seek feedback and keep an open mind. Take every good and bad comment and learn from it. It’s a great way to find out how you are doing, where you are succeeding and what needs improvement.
What can we women in business do to stop self-sabotaging our efforts?
Stop comparing!
If self-sabotage is the biggest enemy of women in business, the 2nd worst is comparison!
There is no cookie-cutter approach to running a business. Don’t feel resentful about your setbacks or the success of others. The better approach would be to study and learn from their best practices as well as their mistakes.
Focus on your strengths.
List down all your accomplishments – big and small. Review the list when you lack confidence and let it inspire you to keep pushing for success.
Take heart! You’re not alone!
Many other women in business have had moments of self-doubts and fears yet went on to succeed. Get inspired by “The Secret To Her Success” – where other female founders share success stories. One of our favorite bits of advice from this series is: “Start with what you have and get out of your way. It doesn’t have to be perfect!”
Network! Get support from other women in business.
Find a group of like-minded women who are also entrepreneurs to cheer you on.
Become a member of The Network for Women in Business. Not only will you be around women who will hold you accountable if ever you backslide into self-limiting behavior, but you’ll also receive training as well as tips on how to grow your business.
