29. Breaking Self-Sabotage–Why We Undo Our Own Progress & How to Stop the Cycle

Have you ever been doing well — emotionally, spiritually, or habitually — only to suddenly undo your own progress? In this episode of the Day One of Sobriety podcast, Brenda breaks down why self-sabotage shows up right when growth begins and why it’s not a personal failure, but protective brain wiring. Blending faith-based neuroscience and Scripture, this episode reveals how the brain’s survival system, identity wounds, and fear-based loops can quietly pull you back into familiar patterns. You’ll learn how to interrupt self-sabotage in real time using simple, Spirit-led tools that help regulate emotions, renew your mind, and realign your identity — without shame. This teaching is a critical foundation as we continue the Reset Your Mind for 2026 series, equipping you to build change that actually lasts. 🔑 Key Episode Insights Self-sabotage is protective wiring, not personal failure The amygdala acts as an emotional library, storing past experiences of safety and threat Growth can feel unsafe to the brain when it’s unfamiliar Shame and fear loops often activate during moments of progress Identity wounds can drive behavior faster than willpower Awareness paired with action is how patterns are interrupted Scripture calls us to take thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) Transformation happens through renewing the mind (Romans 12:2) 🧠 Why This Matters Understanding self-sabotage removes shame and restores hope. When you realize your brain learned patterns to survive—not to sabotage your future—you gain compassion for yourself and clarity for change. God designed your brain for renewal, not stagnation, and Scripture calls us to take thoughts captive, guard our hearts, and steward a sound mind. Neuroscience confirms what Scripture has always taught: the brain can be rewired through intentional, repeated practice. You were never created to be a passive Christian. Mind renewal is an active partnership with God that allows you to walk in the victory Jesus already secured. 🛠 Practical Tools In this episode, Brenda introduces three complementary mind-renewal tools to help you interrupt self-sabotage in real time: CSTR (Catch–Shift–Thank–Release) — for rewiring conscious thought and habit patterns P.U.R.R. — for regulating emotional spikes before processing R.I.S.E. — for strengthening identity when worth or value feels threatened A Self-Sabotage Tools Handout is included in the Show Notes below to help you discern which tool to use and when as you apply what you learned. 📝 Podcast resources are exclusively available to members of the private Facebook Community or the Day One of Sobriety Insider group. If you enjoy this resource, consider joining others on the journey so you can access more of these free tools weekly. To help you Reset Your Mind for 2026, I'm making sure you have direct access to the Self-Sabotage Tools Handout 👉 HERE! ~Brenda ❤️ 🔗 Related Episodes & Links Learn more about the R.I.S.E. Tool in EP18–Rise Above Lies: Discover Your Value and Identity in ChristListen to the MIRACLE that started it all: EP 1 — The Story Behind Day One of SobrietyJoin the Day One of Sobriety Insiders to receive the weekly email newsletter! Engage with other Overcomers and access all episode resources at the Mind Renewal Solutions Made Simple Facebook Community. 👣 Your Next Steps Leave a podcast review! It helps others find the podcast and join us on the healing journey (Romans 12:2). Explore this week’s Day One of Sobriety Blog for more encouragement. Go Deeper with 1:1 coaching support! Get the details ▶️ Mind Renewal Coaching. 📩 Connect with Me 📧 Email: [e-mail] 🎙 Podcast: Day One of Sobriety Podcast 📝 Blog: Day One of Sobriety Blog 📘 Facebook: @day1ofsobriety 📷 Instagram: @day1ofsobriety ⚠️ Disclaimer The Day One of Sobriety podcast is for educational and spiritual growth purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional therapy, counseling, or medical treatment. If you are experiencing significant emotional distress, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional.