Episode 53 How to Stop Sabotaging Your Leadership Career

If you’ve ever found yourself holding back from going for that promotion, doubting your readiness for the next level, or replaying “what if” fears in your mind, this episode is for you. Sarah shares practical strategies, neuroscience-based insights, and mindset tools to help you stop getting in your own way so you can move forward in your leadership career with confidence and purpose.

Whether you’re ready to make a bold career move or simply want to stop second-guessing yourself, this episode will help you understand what’s behind your fears and how to take empowering action.

Show Notes

[00:00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable

[00:01:00] – Why Self-Sabotage Happens

Sarah opens up about her own experiences with self-sabotage and how fear often lies at the root of it.

[00:02:00] – Recognising Self-Sabotage in Your Career

What it looks like when you’re getting in your own way - procrastination, overthinking, and talking yourself out of opportunities.

[00:03:00] – The Four Core Fears Behind Self-Sabotage

Fear of change, failure, making the wrong decision, and fear of what others might think.

[00:04:00] – How Fear Keeps You Stuck

The exhausting mental cycle of wanting change but feeling paralysed by fear.

[00:05:00] – Early Beliefs and Conditioning

How messages from childhood, school, and early career shape your beliefs about what’s possible.

[00:06:00] – The Power of Other People’s Opinions

How the need to please, meet expectations, or avoid judgment can hold you back from taking bold steps.

[00:06:45] – The Role of Circumstances and Security

Why financial or family responsibilities can heighten your fears about making a change.

[00:07:00] – Step 1: Understand Your Fears

How unpacking where your fears come from helps you manage and move through them.

[00:07:20] – Step 2: Visualise a Positive Future

Learn how to “direct a new movie” in your mind and why your brain responds powerfully to positive visualisation.

[00:09:00] – Step 3: Turn Your Vision Into a Plan

How to translate your positive vision into small, concrete actions that build confidence and reduce fear.

[00:10:00] – Step 4: Take Action and Build Momentum

Why taking even small steps forward helps you feel more in control and less afraid.

[00:10:30] – Step 5: Surround Yourself with Positivity

The importance of connecting with people who have a growth mindset and believe in what’s possible.

[00:11:00] – Final Reflections and Invitation

Sarah wraps up with encouragement to take action and invites listeners to reach out for support if they’re ready to stop self-sabotaging and step into leadership with confidence.

Useful Links

Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

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