Breaking Free from Self-Sabotage Early in Your Career

Starting your career can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You want to do well, but sometimes, without even realising it, you end up holding yourself back. This is called self-sabotage, and it can stop you from reaching your full potential. But the good news? You don’t have to let it get in your way.

So, what does self-sabotage look like, and how can you break free from it? Let’s dive in.

1. Perfectionism – The Enemy of Progress

Trying to get everything perfect is a common trap. You might think your work needs to be flawless before you show it to anyone. But this need for perfection can hold you back, make you procrastinate, and stop you from moving forward.

Tip: Aim for progress, not perfection. It’s okay if things aren’t perfect straight away. Learning from mistakes is part of the journey. The most important thing is to keep going.

2. Fear of Failing

We all fear failure at some point. Whether it’s the fear of not being good enough or worrying about messing up, it can stop you from trying new things or pushing yourself further.

Tip: Flip the script on failure. See it as a chance to learn, not a setback. Every successful person has faced failure—it’s all part of growing.

3. Doubting Yourself

When you’re starting, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong or that others are more qualified than you. These doubts can make you hesitate to speak up or grab opportunities.

Tip: Believe in yourself! Take time to reflect on what you’ve already accomplished, even the small wins. Recognising your strengths will help you grow in confidence.

4. Procrastination – Putting Things Off

It’s easy to procrastinate, especially when tasks feel overwhelming or you’re unsure where to start. But, delaying things just adds to the stress.

Tip: Break tasks into smaller steps. Start with the hardest task first, then take it one step at a time. Setting small deadlines helps you keep moving forward.

5. Comparing Yourself to Others

It’s tempting to look around and compare your progress to someone else’s. But constantly comparing yourself can make you feel like you're not measuring up.

Tip: Focus on your path. Everyone’s career journey is different. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and remember that your journey is yours alone.

6. Not Asking for Help

When you're new to a job or field, it’s natural to want to prove yourself. But trying to do everything on your own can lead to burnout and frustration.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s advice, feedback, or just support, asking for help shows strength, not weakness. We all need a little guidance along the way.

7. Avoiding Networking

Networking can feel awkward, but it’s such an important part of building your career. Avoiding it can limit the connections and opportunities that might help you grow.

Tip: Start small. Reach out to a few people, attend events, or just chat with colleagues. Networking doesn’t have to be intimidating—it’s all about building genuine relationships.

Conclusion: Break the Cycle Early

Self-sabotage is something we all deal with, but it doesn’t have to control your career. By recognising the signs and making small changes, you can stop holding yourself back and start moving forward with confidence.

At Give-Get-Go Education, we believe in you and your potential. Don’t let fear, doubt, or perfectionism stand in your way. The key is to keep learning, growing, and being kind to yourself along the way. You’ve got this!