Success Isn’t Scary, But My Saboteurs Are!

My Saboteurs have been running wild recently. Maybe "Saboteur" sounds like coach-speak, but what I mean is those inner voices that whisper (or shout) things to us—usually with the intention of protecting us from failure or disappointment, but often in ways that feel anything but helpful.

I've been working with my Saboteurs for a long time. I’ve learned to recognize them, name them, and even befriend them. But the ones that showed up this time? They’ve been particularly harsh and dark. Their tone caught me off guard, and truthfully, it scared me.

Why now? You might ask.

On paper, 2024 has been a good year—maybe even a great one. I’ve had the privilege of doing what I love: delivering leadership programs and training across multiple countries, working with inspiring individuals, and forming meaningful connections. I’ve seen my work gain visibility, even appearing on TV several times. It’s the kind of year I dreamed of when I started this journey.

So why, in the midst of all this, are my Saboteurs so active?

Here’s what I’ve come to realize: it’s because I’m walking a path that feels deeply aligned with my purpose and dreams. And that is terrifying.

It’s scary to step into the life you’ve always envisioned. It’s scary to feel seen and vulnerable, to put your heart into something and risk it not being enough—or even worse, risk finding out that you might not feel enough.

Our Saboteurs show up most fiercely when we’re on the edge of growth, when we’re stepping into something bigger than ourselves. They are like overly cautious bodyguards, trying to shield us from the pain of failure, rejection, or loss.

For me, this season has brought out my inner critic in full force. One Saboteur whispers, “You’re doing too much—people will notice when you drop the ball.” Another shouts, “What if you can’t sustain this momentum? What if it all comes crashing down?” A particularly sneaky one plants doubt: “Do you even deserve this success? Are you really making a difference?”

Sound familiar?

The thing about Saboteurs is that their tactics can feel personal, but their voices are universal. Most of us have some version of these inner critics. They just wear different disguises: the perfectionist, the people-pleaser, the procrastinator, the doubter.

What I’ve learned is this: my Saboteurs are not my enemies. They are simply misguided protectors, trying to keep me safe. But safety, I’ve realized, isn’t always the goal. Growth is.

So, here’s how I’m working with my Saboteurs this time:

1. Naming Them: By identifying which Saboteurs are speaking, I take away their power. A vague sense of dread can feel overwhelming, but calling it out—“Ah, here’s my inner Critic!”—makes it manageable.
2. Thanking Them: It might sound strange, but I thank my Saboteurs for trying to protect me. They mean well, even if their methods are unhelpful. A little compassion can go a long way in diffusing their intensity.
3. Redirecting the Energy: Instead of letting the Saboteurs spiral into negativity, I redirect their energy into something constructive. For example, when the Critic shows up, I ask: “What can I learn from this feedback, and what can I let go of?”
4. Grounding in My Purpose: When fear rises, I reconnect with the why behind what I do. My Saboteurs may question whether I’m enough, but my purpose reminds me that this work isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present, courageous, and authentic.
5. Asking for Support: Growth doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Whether it’s a trusted friend, coach, or community, leaning on others helps quiet the internal noise.

If you’ve been battling your own Saboteurs lately, I hope this resonates with you.

Remember, their presence doesn’t mean you’re failing. Quite the opposite—it means you’re growing, stretching, stepping into your potential.

So, to anyone who feels like their inner critics are louder than ever, take heart: you’re on the right path. Growth is scary, yes, but it’s also exhilarating.

Let’s keep walking toward our dreams, Saboteurs and all.