How to Stop Self Sabotaging | for Today's Aging Woman

This week, I found myself a bit uninspired about creating content, so I turned to my Instagram audience for some guidance. One of the questions that came up was particularly striking: "How do I stop self-sabotaging? I want to fast to feel better, but I keep quitting." This question is a perfect segue into a discussion that's very close to my heart and our community here—the mindset needed for success, particularly in the realm of intermittent fasting.

Understanding Self-Sabotage in Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting is a deliberate choice to refrain from consuming anything that triggers a significant biochemical or hormonal response in our bodies. This practice helps maintain a state conducive to healing. However, the journey isn't just about deciding to fast; it's deeply intertwined with our mental approach and understanding of our own behaviors, especially self-sabotage.

The Role of 'Why' in Overcoming Self-Sabotage

The first step in addressing self-sabotage is understanding the 'why' behind the desire for change. It's crucial to dig deep. Often, our initial reasons are superficial—like wanting to lose weight or feel better. As a coach, I push further, asking "Why is that important to you?" repeatedly until we reach a core motive that resonates on an emotional level. This foundational 'why' is what can drive real, sustainable change.

For someone using intermittent fasting as a tool, understanding why they feel compelled to self-sabotage is essential. It's about identifying what fasting represents to them and why it might be causing internal conflict. This understanding can lead to a significant shift in how one perceives their actions and challenges.

Changing Identity and Setting Boundaries

A pivotal aspect of overcoming self-sabotage is the realization that you don't have to identify as a self-saboteur. This identity shift is crucial. If fasting periods or feelings of hunger are challenging, it might be due to an unhealthy relationship with food or unresolved emotional issues. Recognizing and accepting these underlying issues is the first step toward addressing them.

To combat the unconscious habits that lead to self-sabotage, I recommend setting physical reminders—like sticky notes or ties on pantry handles—that act as 'tripwires' to catch you before you fall back into old patterns. These small, physical cues can help maintain awareness and prevent automatic behaviors that derail fasting efforts.

Strategies to Maintain Fasting and Overcome Quits

The journey of intermittent fasting, like any other form of self-improvement, is fraught with potential setbacks. However, it's important to distinguish between quitting and failing. Failing is part of the learning process, allowing us to gather insights and come back stronger. Quitting, on the other hand, means giving up on the possibility of ever succeeding.

Building a Supportive Mindset

Intermittent fasting isn't just about physical health; it's a mental and emotional practice as well. To succeed, it's essential to cultivate a mindset that supports your goals. This involves redefining how you view setbacks and reframing them as opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing a broken fast as a failure, view it as a chance to understand what led to that decision and how you can adjust your approach in the future.

Practical Tips for Consistent Fasting

1. Choose Your Fasting Hours: Clearly define when you will start and end your fast each day. This simple step can help you stay committed and avoid ambiguity that might lead to breaking the fast unintentionally.
2. Create Conscious Cues: Place visual or physical reminders that encourage you to stay mindful about your fasting state. This could be as simple as a motivational quote on your fridge or a notification on your phone that reminds you of your fasting window.
3. Develop Alternative Responses: When you feel the urge to eat due to emotional stress or habit, have a list of alternative actions ready. This could include going for a walk, calling a friend, or practicing a few minutes of meditation. These actions can help divert your attention and maintain your fast.

Leveraging Failures for Success

It's crucial to understand that each setback in your fasting journey is an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your triggers. This insight allows you to develop strategies that are tailored to your personal challenges and needs. The goal isn't to never fail, but to learn from each failure and use that knowledge to enhance your resilience and commitment to your fasting goals.

Join Our Community for Support and Growth

If you're looking to deepen your understanding of intermittent fasting and want to join a supportive community that focuses on the mindset aspect of fasting, consider joining our upcoming course. Starting on January 31st, with the last session in March 2025, this course offers an opportunity to engage with group coaching and gain extended access for six years, ensuring you have the support you need to succeed.

Conclusion

Intermittent fasting is more than a dietary choice; it's a lifestyle that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. By understanding the root causes of self-sabotage and developing strategies to overcome them, you can enhance your fasting experience and achieve the wellness you desire. Remember, every day is a new opportunity to succeed, and with the right mindset and support, you can achieve lasting change.

I look forward to seeing you in our next class and helping you on your journey to better health and mindfulness through intermittent fasting.

Have a great day, and see you soon!