Breaking the Cycle: How Leaders Can Overcome Self-Sabotage

Breaking the Cycle: How Leaders Can Overcome Self-Sabotage

Breaking the Cycle: How Leaders Can Overcome Self-Sabotage

Today, we’re diving into something that often flies under the radar but can seriously impact your success: self-sabotage. Leaders can unknowingly get in their own way—so let’s break down how this happens and, most importantly, how to stop it.
 

Understanding Self-Sabotage in Leadership

Leadership self-sabotage can be subtle and often masks itself in behaviors like procrastination, perfectionism, or reluctance to delegate. Even the most confident leaders can fall into these traps, often without realizing it. At its core, this self-sabotage is frequently fueled by deeper issues like fear of failure, fear of success, or imposter syndrome. Leaders may worry that greater success will bring changes they’re not ready for, or they may question whether they truly deserve their achievements. These internal conflicts can cause leaders to unknowingly hold themselves back despite their outward confidence.
 
Recognizing these behaviors and addressing the underlying fears is essential to breaking free from patterns that limit potential and growth.
 

 7 Actionable Strategies to Overcome Self-Sabotage:

 

1. Increase Self-Awareness:

Start with daily morning pages—a freewriting journaling practice where you write whatever comes to mind for 10-15 minutes every morning. This helps clear mental clutter and reveal thought patterns and limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. Over time, you’ll begin to notice recurring themes or habits that need attention, which is the first step in breaking the cycle of self-sabotage.
 

2. Challenge Negative Beliefs:

When negative thoughts surface, reframe them in the moment. Ask yourself, “Is this belief based on fact or fear?” Reframing these thoughts immediately rewires your brain, creating new neural pathways that support more empowering beliefs. The more you practice this, the easier it becomes to replace self-doubt with confidence.
 

3. Have a Compelling Vision:

Craft a vision so strong it pulls you forward even when you encounter obstacles. A clear, compelling vision aligns your daily actions with your long-term goals, reducing the chances of falling into self-sabotage. This vision should excite and motivate you, serving as a constant reminder of where you’re heading, which makes it easier to overcome temporary setbacks.
 

4. Embrace Failure

Failure isn’t a roadblock; it’s feedback. Reframe it as a stepping stone to growth and improvement rather than a sign of defeat. Each failure gives you critical insights and opportunities to refine your approach, making you more resilient and adaptive in the long run. The leaders who succeed are the ones who learn to see failure as an essential part of the journey.
 

5. Create a Support System

Surround yourself with growth-minded individuals who challenge you to evolve rather than just cheer on all of your ideas. A good support system pushes you out of your comfort zone and holds you accountable for continuous improvement. Having people around you who understand the value of growth ensures that you’re always moving forward, even when things get tough.
 

6. Physiological Detachment From Work

It’s crucial to regularly disconnect from work to allow your brain to recover and recharge. Whether it’s engaging in physical exercise, spending time in nature, or simply being fully present with loved ones, these breaks give your mind the space it needs to function at its best. This detachment prevents burnout and allows you to return to work with renewed energy and clarity.
 

7. Seek Professional Help

You can’t always see your own blind spots, which is why coaching or mentorship is so valuable. A great coach not only helps uncover those hidden areas but also provides the guidance and tools you need to shift your perspective and make lasting changes. Sometimes, the most transformative growth comes from having someone challenge your thinking and help you create actionable strategies for progress.
 

Final Thoughts

Self-sabotage is fixable. Awareness and these simple strategies can help you break the cycle and lead yourself with clarity and confidence.

Ready to level up?  Click HERE to set up a complimentary call with Carmen, and the Amplified Team can unlock your full potential!

For more, follow The Amplified Life Company @carmenohling on LinkedIn and Instagram 
5 Bezos-Inspired Tips for Balance and Energy at Work and Life

5 Bezos-Inspired Tips for Balance and Energy at Work and Life

And just like that, fall officially kicks off this weekend – and so does the Amplify Your Life Growth Summit in Bend, Oregon! 
 
While we’re diving into growth and transformation at the Summit, the season is shifting outside, too. Maybe you’re excited to have the kids back in school, or maybe, like me, you don’t treat summer any differently than the rest of the year when it comes to work. No “summer slowdown” here.
 
That said, summer still brings up thoughts of spending time outside with family and friends, taking trips, and getting some mental distance from work. The sunshine, BBQs, all of it. 
 
But here’s the thing: I don’t think those rare, extended vacations are what truly keep us recharged and ready to go long-term
 
Real energy and health come from the small, consistent habits we integrate into our daily, weekly, and monthly routines. 
 
Last year, I took a month-long break in Tulum to write, reflect, and create before a big pivot in the business. And yeah, I’m grateful I could do that.
 
But should it take completely shutting down for a month—or half a year—to feel rested? 
 
Absolutely not.
 
More often than not, burnout comes from failing to think ahead, plan effectively, and focus on the day-to-day rhythms that matter.
 
Take Jeff Bezos.
 
Regardless of what you think about him, you can’t deny he’s mastered the art of being an efficient leader. Over the years, I’ve borrowed some of his tips on prioritization, and mixed in my own routines to stay high energy and enthusiastic, without needing to run myself into the ground—or rely on long breaks to recover.
 
If we can master the art of being effective during normal work hours, we won’t just be living for the weekends or the next big vacation.
 
It’s about getting out of survival mode and into thriving mode.
 

Here are five Bezos-inspired tips I’ve found to be game-changers in maintaining that balance and energy, both at work and in life: 

 
#1: Focus on quality over quantity. 

Make three high-quality decisions a day. That’s it.
 

Bezos himself has said that if he can make three good decisions in a day, that’s enough. We may not have the luxury to delegate everything like he does, but we can focus on making fewer, higher-impact decisions. It’s good for your well-being and it’s even better for your team when you’re able to delegate and share the load.

#2: Don’t wait for perfect information. 

 
Once you’ve got 70% of the information, it’s time to act. Waiting for 100% data or clarity leads to indecision and lost opportunities.
 

I get it—if you’re a perfectionist, this feels tough. But we can’t afford to wait for the stars to align perfectly. As Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, says, “Trust your gut and intuition more.” When you move forward confidently, you’ll find you free up energy and capacity for what matters most.

 

 
#3: Make decisions when you’re at your best. 
 
Know your rhythms. Bezos tackles big decisions between 10 AM and noon because he’s at his sharpest during that time.
 

Take time to identify when you’re most energized and make your biggest moves during those peak hours. I know I’m not at my best on Friday afternoons, so I front-load my week with important decisions and save the less demanding work for the end of the week.

 

 
#4: Protect your time like a fortress. 
 
Bezos is known for guarding his time fiercely. He keeps his mornings for important decisions and avoids “filler” activities.
 

We may not all have the flexibility to shape our schedules exactly like that, but we can intentionally block time for high-priority work. Start small—whether it’s carving out a few hours to focus each morning or limiting back-to-back meetings.

 

 
#5: Say no more often. 
 
Bezos has mastered the art of saying no, and it’s something we all need to get better at. Saying no to things that don’t align with your priorities frees up your time and mental energy for what truly matters.
 

Protecting your boundaries is essential to avoid burnout and maintain focus. Whether it’s turning down a meeting or skipping an opportunity that doesn’t align with your goals, get comfortable with saying no.

 

 

There’s no magic bullet to mastering this balance, but I challenge you to pick one of these tips and start implementing it today. Then, hit reply and let me know how it goes—I want to hear what resonates with you. 
For more, follow The Amplified Life Company @carmenohling on LinkedIn and Instagram 
Be a Ripple in Someone’s Story

Be a Ripple in Someone’s Story

“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

We all dream of making a big impact, maybe even changing the world.

But lately, I’ve been reflecting on something important: Sometimes, the most profound impact happens when we focus on making small, seemingly insignificant, yet wildly important ripples in someone’s daily story.

Take a moment to think about those in your life who’ve made a difference for you.

For me, people like Phil, the local restaurant manager down the street from our condo, who brings people together with a warm smile, an encouraging wave, and a friendly demeanor. Or the front desk team member at the gym on Saturdays, whose energy fills the room and makes every workout a joy. And the coffee shop barista who greets me with a smile and automatically knows to bring me an unsweetened, iced almond milk latte downstairs while I set up to work for the day.  Or even my husband, Joal whose daily intention is to serve, to help others – no matter where we go he is open and alert to where he can offer a hand, a word of encouragement, or even simply an ear to listen.

These people aren’t changing the world on a grand scale, but they’re changing the world for those they touch. They’re proof that you don’t need to impact millions to make a difference. 

So, how can you have a big impact on someone’s story today? 

1. Find Your Place: Whether it’s a local café, gym, or community group, find a space where you can show up regularly and make it your second home. 

2. Engage Deeply: Don’t just show up—get involved. Volunteer, connect, and contribute in ways that make a difference to those around you. 

3. Take your Time: Set the intention to not rush each day, look up, listen, and take your time. 

4. Recognize Your Ripple Effect: Remember, your impact on one person can ripple out to others. The world may be big, but small, meaningful actions can create waves of change. 

And if you’re looking to be in a room with growth-minded individuals who are ready to make their own wavesjoin us at the Amplify Your Life Growth Summit. 

It’s the perfect place to connect, learn, and start making that impact.

You can join us for only $199 for a few more days! 

Let’s focus on shaking our corner of the world, one person at a time. 

Ready to put yourself in the room with other thought-leaders and change-makers who ask the BEST questions and share the BEST strategies and BEST practices Join us Sept 21st in Bend, Oregon:
 
Check for available seats to the AYL Growth Summit HERE.
P.S. – Tickets are on sale for only $199 right now!
For more, follow The Amplified Life Company @carmenohling on LinkedIn and Instagram 
Are You Letting Comfort Creep Hold You Back?

Are You Letting Comfort Creep Hold You Back?

Lately, I’ve been diving deep into understanding why so many people are feeling stuck, discouraged, and not fully living out their dreams. I kept coming across a concept that hit home: Comfort Creep.
 
What is Comfort Creep? 
 
Comfort Creep is that sneaky process where, little by little, we start avoiding discomfort. We stick to what’s easy, familiar, and safe, unknowingly lowering our standards and holding ourselves back from growth. We might shy away from tough workouts, challenging projects, or difficult conversations—not because we’re incapable, but because we’ve become too comfortable. Over time, this can lead to a life that’s not only unchallenging but also unfulfilling. 
 
Why Does This Matter? 
 
Let’s talk numbers: 
 
  • 95% of diets fail because maintaining long-term lifestyle changes is uncomfortable.
  • 33% of Americans cite fear of failure as the reason they never start their dream business.
  • 92% of New Year’s goals go unachieved because the discomfort of persistence often wins.
  • Only 33% of employees feel actively engaged in their work, with many avoiding the discomfort of taking on new challenges or learning new skills, leading to career stagnation.
  • 70% of employees avoid difficult conversations at work, which can lead to unresolved conflicts and hinder personal and professional growth.
  • 25% of Americans have stayed in an unsatisfying relationship because they fear the discomfort of confronting issues or being alone.
 
These stats show that avoiding discomfort can keep us from reaching our fullest potential, whether it’s in our health, career, or personal growth. We’re all capable of more, but Comfort Creep quietly convinces us to settle for less.
 
So, how do we break free from Comfort Creep? 
 
Here are three powerful steps you can take today: 
 
1. Get Comfortable with Discomfort: Start by embracing small challenges daily.  Push yourself a little harder in your workouts, take on that project you’ve been avoiding, or initiate that tough conversation. The more you practice, the more resilient you become.
 
2. Shift Your Mindset: Reframe discomfort as a sign of growth.  Instead of seeing it as something to avoid, see it as a necessary step towards your goals. Remember, every great achievement was once uncomfortable.
 
3. Get in the Room with Growth-Minded People: Surrounding yourself with people who challenge and expand you is one of the most powerful ways to break free from Comfort Creep.  That’s exactly why I’m inviting you to join us at the Amplify Your Life Growth Summit on September 21st in Bend, Oregon. This is your chance to connect with growth-minded individuals, learn from top leaders, and take actionable steps toward the life you truly want. 
 
(Only 22 seats are left, so grab yours here for only $199: Amplify Your Life Growth Summit)
 
Don’t let Comfort Creep hold you back from the life you’re meant to live.
 

You’re capable of so much more, and it all starts with stepping out of your comfort zone. 

 

Here’s to your growth and greatness,

Carmen

For more, follow The Amplified Life Company @carmenohling on LinkedIn and Instagram 
The Power of Asking Better Questions In Community

The Power of Asking Better Questions In Community

I’m obsessed with asking better questions, specifically self-reflection questions. 

Why?

Because I’ve seen firsthand in my life and the lives of our clients – the power of self-reflection through asking better questions. 

I think seeing the right question at the right time can completely change the trajectory of your life, and I have been a witness to this many times over. 

Yes, they’re that powerful. 

Below are three of my favorite questions we’ve been asking this year within the Amplified Life Company as we are navigating substantial growth: 

  1. What can you do to become 1% better today? 
  2. If you keep your current habits, will your life and career become better or worse?  
  3. What is getting too much attention from you during your day?  What is not getting enough?

When was the last time you had time to think, reflect, and process using high-caliber questions that led to a breakthrough, idea, or growth? 

Watch the below video, where I share the reality of “doing it alone” vs “doing it in collaboration with others” – it’s honestly the cheat code to life and business!! THIS VIDEO 

Are you option 1 or 2 right now in your life and career? 

BE HONEST with yourself here.

For years and years, I ️chose 1.  It was hard, long, isolating, and frustrating, and I often thought, “Why not me, I am doing everything they’re doing!”  I know, so revealing, right, but we’ve all been there – you are not alone!  

Now, look at this:

Last week, surveyed several leaders and entrepreneurs, and they said unanimously that the one thing they were missing was the PEOPLE and COMMUNITY of high performers they know they need to surround themselves with to get to the next level of success and freedom in their life and business….

This is exactly why we are hosting the Amplify Your Life event, and if you are joining us at the AYL Growth Summit next month in Bend, Oregon, we will be asking questions like these and more!  

At AYL, you’ll have the opportunity to shift your perspective, learn, grow, connect, and collaborate at the HIGHEST LEVEL possible!!

Questions?  Email us at hello@carmenohling.com

 

For more, follow The Amplified Life Company @carmenohling on LinkedIn and Instagram 
3 Steps to Help You Check In with Yourself Personally and Professionally

3 Steps to Help You Check In with Yourself Personally and Professionally

 

 

As a leader, it’s important to have boundaries personally and professionally, but if you’re anything like me you might feel guilty enforcing them at times.
A great leader has a healthy, prioritized mix of selfish boundaries and unselfish giving.

You don’t have to always be all things, all the time, to everyone.   Sometimes you pour out your cup for others and sometimes you need to relentlessly refill your cup. 

As you’re reading this what does this moment call for?

How do you know?

It’s a delicate integration of energy, enthusiasm, empathy, and self-awareness, but it’s one you must master if you want to lead effectively without burning out, losing your passion, or becoming resentful.

 

Below are three steps to help you check in with yourself both personally and professionally: 

 

1. Pause and Reflect

Take a moment to pause and ask yourself, “How am I really feeling right now?”

Not the surface-level, autopilot answer you might give in passing, but a deeper check-in. Are you tired, energized, overwhelmed, or languishing?

This simple act of self-awareness can be revealing. If you’re running on empty, it’s a sign that you need to refill your cup. If you’re feeling full, maybe it’s time to pour some of that energy into others.

 
 

2. Assess Your Current Commitments

Look at what’s on your plate. Is it manageable, or are you teetering on the edge of overwhelm? 

This isn’t just about how much you have to do, but how those tasks align with your values and goals.

Are your commitments feeding your growth and well-being, or are they draining you?

If you find that your responsibilities are more of a burden than a blessing, it’s time to reassess and set some boundaries.

 

3. Check Your Energy Exchange

Consider the relationships and activities in your lifeare they reciprocal, or are you constantly giving without receiving? 

healthy energy exchange is key to maintaining your highest character and capacity. If you’re always the one pouring out, eventually, you’ll run dry.

Take stock of where your energy is going and adjust as needed to ensure that you’re not depleting yourself.

 

In these moments of reflection, you’re not just checking your capacity; you’re taking responsibility for your own well-being.

It’s not selfish to put yourself first sometimes—it’s necessary.

When your cup is full, you can give from a place of abundance, and that’s when you’re at your best as a leader.

So, what does this moment call for? Listen to what your body, mind, and spirit are telling you, and honor that.
For more, follow The Amplified Life Company @carmenohling on LinkedIn and Instagram 

STOP TRYING TO DO IT ALL AND BE EVERYTHING TO EVERYONE!

Are you finally ready to let go of doing it all, feeling overwhelmed and not finding joy in your life? I remember the day I said “no more” and  I let it all go!  I’ve created this guide with 3 simple steps for you to get started and find more joy in your everyday life and way less stress!

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