5 Things to Stop Doing….Immediately

by Chasity Kuttrus

Are you engaging in behavior that’s holding you back from getting where you want to go – in your career or in your personal life? Let me tell you a little secret….most of us are, whether we realize it or not. In fact, even the most confident, savvy and successful of us are still acting in ways that keep us from moving forward.

Here are a few of the most common things women need to stop doing…immediately.

1. Negative Self-Talk. The tone of your inner voice sets the tone for your entire existence. If you are constantly berating yourself, insulting yourself and telling yourself you are dumb, stupid, lazy, fat or ugly, how do you think that is going to affect your entire life?

Would you ever….ever speak to a friend of loved one the way you speak to yourself? Of course not. How would you speak to them? With encouragement, compliments and praise. Start doing that to yourself.

2. Falling Into The “Someday” Trap. Someday isn’t guaranteed, so stop thinking in those terms. Instead, start thinking in “ASAP” terms. As in, set your goals, put a plan in place and do it. I’m not suggesting you throw caution to the wind and take unnecessary risks but get your plan in motion today. Not “someday.”

3. Letting Others Define Your Path. Whether we’re talking about your career path or your personal path, it’s up to you to determine what you want and then put into place the action steps to get there. Otherwise, you’ll be caught up in the tide, with no say in where you end up. What’s the logical next step in your career path? Is that what course YOU put yourself on or what someone else put you on? What does your weekend schedule look like? I know, it’s often dictated by everyone else’s activities, wants and needs. Make sure you make time for your desired activities too. You may be surprised how others can adjust once you take the bull by the horns.

4. Burning Out. No offense, but you’re of no use to anyone – your company, your family, yourself – if you’re passed out on the floor from exhaustion. Get enough sleep. Get some exercise. Get your life in balance. Here are some tips to help you manage your time – and your life – better.

5. Nurturing The “I’m Not Worthy” Syndrome. Believe me, everyone struggles with this one – CEO’s, rock stars, actors, even the President. Just like you and me, these people sometimes feel like someone is going to find out that they don’t know what they’re doing and the jig will be up. It’s natural – and even good – to feel a slight sense of insecurity because it means you recognize you still have things to learn. When we stop learning, we stop growing. Recognize that you have incredible skills and talents, be grateful for your blessings, know that you deserve to be where you are and then keep striving to be the best you can be.

Sometimes, all it takes is a few changes in your life to make big progress and giving up self-defeating behaviors is a great way to start.