The Psychology of Self-Sabotage: Why You Destroy What You Say You Want
From Positive Proof by Parmis Najmi
February 18, 2026 · 33 min · Episode 65
About this episode
This episode explores the psychology behind self-sabotage and its impact on behavior and relationships.
Why do we sabotage healthy relationships, procrastinate on big opportunities, or pull back when things are finally going well? In this episode, we’re breaking down the psychology of self-sabotage from a science-backed perspective — not in a “just think positive” way, but through identity, nervous system regulation, cognitive dissonance, and emotional patterns that shape behavior. If you’ve ever: • Procrastinated on something that mattered • Questioned a relationship that was actually healthy ...
People in this episode
Host: Parmis Najmi
Topics covered
- self-sabotage
- psychology
- identity
- nervous system regulation
- cognitive dissonance
- emotional patterns
- behavior
Keywords
- self-sabotage
- psychology
- procrastination
- healthy relationships
- cognitive dissonance
- emotional patterns
- identity
More episodes of Positive Proof
- How to Actually Achieve Anything You Want · April 27, 2026 · 27 min
- Less Consuming, More Doing: The Habit That Changes Everything · March 25, 2026 · 25 min
- Why Complaining Feels Good (But It’s Rewiring Your Brain) · March 5, 2026 · 31 min
- 27 Life Lessons I’ve Learned by 27 — Growth, Boundaries, Healing & Identity · February 6, 2026 · 34 min
- Why You Chase People, Validation, and Certainty: The Pattern of Anxious Attachment · January 27, 2026 · 28 min
- How to Become Unbothered — Guide to Emotional Resilience · January 22, 2026 · 30 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Positive Proof podcast page.