Autumn: Today we're diving into Brianna Wiest's powerful book "The Mountain Is You," exploring why we become our own biggest obstacle through self-sabotage, even when we desperately want to change. Autumn: Ever feel stuck? You know you want that promotion, healthier habits, or less stress, but you keep getting in your own way? Maybe you procrastinate on vital projects, avoid tough conversations, or overthink decisions into paralysis. It’s frustrating, especially when you want to move forward. This isn't just laziness; it reveals a deep conflict between our conscious goals and subconscious fears or unmet needs. This internal tug-of-war leaves busy professionals, especially, feeling confused and stuck on their personal mountains, unable to reach their potential despite their best intentions. Autumn: So, how do we break free? Wiest reframes self-sabotage entirely. It's not a character flaw; it's often your subconscious trying to protect you based on old fears or outdated beliefs. Think about it – could procrastinating shield you from a fear of failure, or even success? The first step is emotional awareness. Instead of beating yourself up, get curious: what need is this behavior trying to meet, however clumsily? This means learning to recognize and understand your feelings rather than suppressing them. Ignored emotions don't vanish; they build up, driving unwanted patterns. Simple practices like journaling or just pausing to feel can help process this backlog. Then, embrace "microshifts" – tiny, consistent changes. Forget dramatic overhauls; focus on small steps like dedicating just ten minutes to that daunting task. These build momentum without triggering massive resistance. Crucially, learn to sit with discomfort. That feeling of hitting a wall isn't a stop sign; it’s often a signal that growth is necessary, the tipping point before a breakthrough. It’s about building resilience by understanding that discomfort is a teacher, not just something to escape. And consider redefining success. Are your goals truly yours, or are they driven by external expectations? Aligning actions with your authentic values, rather than chasing validation, reduces the internal conflict that fuels sabotage. Autumn: Here’s something to try today: The next time you notice that resistance – maybe endlessly scrolling instead of tackling that report – pause. Just for a breath. Ask yourself kindly, "What might I be trying to protect myself from right now?" No judgment, just awareness. This small act can interrupt the cycle. Then, take one tiny step forward. Keep exploring, and I'll catch you next time on Five Percent Happier.