7 Habits That Will Hold You Back From Success

You have probably heard of the saying that you are your “own worst enemy.” That has to do with nearly every aspect of personal or professional life. While circumstances, and even other individuals can certainly get in the way of what you achieve, more often than not it is our own habits that can keep us from achieving more success in our lives.

It is not always easy to recognize these limiting habits, especially if you are just “used to” doing things a certain way. But, some of the things that you do each day could be keeping you from the success that you want and deserve.

So, what are some of the potential habits that could be holding you back, and what changes can you make to your daily routine to achieve more success in your life?

You Don’t Have a Routine

Speaking of changing your daily routine, do you have one? Establishing a structured routine, especially a morning routine, can help to set you up for more success by allowing yourself to get into the right mindset and starting the day the best possible way.

Your daily routine is of course up to you. But, by including things like positive thinking, using a journal, eating healthy, mindfulness and exercise, you will be ready to start your day with less stress and much more focus and energy.

You Don’t Utilize Your Strengths

It is okay to feel nervous or perhaps even overwhelmed when you are faced with a difficult situation. But, if you have the skills or experience to handle those situations, don’t back down. Instead, utilize your strengths and use your abilities to work through whatever is in front of you and move forward. A good way to ensure that you do this is to remind yourself on a regular basis of your strengths. Positive self-talk can go a long way in boosting your confidence and self-esteem, so that you will have the self belief to take the necessary action when you need to.

You Don’t Manage Your Time Well

Do you find yourself taking on the ‘easier’ tasks each day while procrastinating on the things that might be more difficult or take more time? This procrastination can lead to eventually feeling overwhelmed when several big things are stacked against you at once.

Choose to manage your time in a more productive way by creating a “to-do” list of the things you must accomplish each day. You can organize it however you see fit, but try to put some of the bigger things first. When you get those jobs done, not only will you feel better about yourself, but you are more likely going to be motivated to complete the rest of your list.

You Let Others Take Up Your Time and Energy

Do you ever feel like you don’t have enough time to get all of your work done because other people are constantly interrupting you? While it might be easy to place the blame on those “energy and time vampires,” you are still the one in control.

If people are distracting you throughout the day, do what you can to find more alone time. Close your door, or put a ‘do not disturb’ sign outside your office. Or politely tell them that you are busy at the moment.

It is okay to have designated times for people to come over to you for a quick chat, but when you are trying to get things done, remaining distraction-free and being more focused is more important.

The only person who is truly holding you back is you. No more excuses. It’s time to change. It’s time to live life at a new level. — Tony Robbins

You Are a Perfectionist

When most people think of the word “perfectionist,” they don’t necessarily think it is a bad thing. And, for the most part, it isn’t. There is nothing wrong with wanting things done the right way. Unfortunately, many perfectionists can take that mindset to extremes. It can actually end up holding you back, if you do.

First of all, perfectionists often think that they have to do everything on their own in order to get it done the right way. They don’t like delegating jobs to others or working as a team. But, that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and completely buried by all you have to do. Not only will your work undoubtedly suffer, but your mental and physical health could, too.

It is difficult to tell someone not to be a perfectionist. As it is not just a switch that can be turned on and off. But, if you consider yourself to be one, start getting into the productive habit of letting others help you with some of your workload.

You Shy Away From Tough Conversations

Conversations that you know will be difficult are not exactly something that any of us want to run to. But, they are often necessary for growth. By avoiding tough conversations, you will remain stagnant and may even end up ‘agreeing’ to things that you are not happy or agree with. So, while it may not be fun to have difficult conversations, it is necessary for growth.

Sometimes the most important conversation that we can ever have are the ones with ourselves. Take the time to take stock of where you are in different aspects of your life. Be honest with yourself and make the necessary changes that you need to, in order to keep yourself on track with your goals.

You Don’t Show Gratitude

The reality is, everyone needs the help and support of others in order to succeed. You undoubtedly have a team of people that either work for or with you. Get into the regular habit of showing them more gratitude and appreciation. Say ‘thank you’ on a regular basis. The simple act of gratitude can help to motivate and inspire them, and make you feel better as well.

If you want to find happiness, find gratitude. — Steve Maraboli

If you feel that you might be holding yourself back from success, always remember, it is never too late to change some of your daily habits. By getting rid of some of the habits listed here and making active, positive changes to your daily routine, you can continue to develop and grow on your journey towards your future success.