Self-sabotaging our character

IN TODAY’S era of misinformation, a more insidious threat to our well-being has emerged: self-sabotage. We often unwittingly destroy our own character, credibility, and identity by letting others define us.

- ANOLENE THANGAVELU PILLAY

The opinions of those around us can be overwhelming, leading us to seek validation and acceptance from external sources rather than from within. But what happens when we surrender our self-worth to the opinions of others?

Do we risk losing our authentic selves in the process? Are we brave enough to challenge the narratives that have been imposed upon us, or do we conform to societal expectations?

The World Health Organization (WHO) lists bullying, divorce, suicide, and depression as significant global concerns, with alarming statistics: up to 30% of suicide rates in many countries are linked to bullying. These numbers are a harsh reminder of the devastating impact of negativity and criticism on our mental health. As we navigate this complex issue, we must ask ourselves: What role do we play in perpetuating a culture of criticism and judgment?

Can we learn to prioritise empathy and kindness in our daily interactions?

In this article, we question why we contribute to our own self-sabotage. In the midst of character assassination and the mental fugue states that often accompany it, we find ourselves engaging with deeply ingrained societal norms that overly rely on external validation. This tendency can lead us to internalise others’ negative opinions, impacting our self-worth in profound ways.