9 signs someone is sabotaging their own happiness but they blame other people for it

We all know someone who seems to stand in the way of their own happiness, and then points fingers at everyone else. It’s a pattern that can be incredibly frustrating to witness.

The thing is, most of the time, these people don’t realize they’re sabotaging their own joy. They’re too caught up in blaming others to see the role they’re playing in their own dissatisfaction.

In this article, we’ll be identifying the telltale signs of self-sabotage and misplaced blame. Get ready to gain some insight into human behavior, and maybe even recognize a few patterns in your own life.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into “9 signs someone is sabotaging their own happiness but they blame other people for it”.

1) They’re always playing the victim

We all face hardships in life. That’s a given. But there’s a big difference between acknowledging those challenges and using them as an excuse to avoid taking responsibility.

People who sabotage their own happiness often adopt the role of the victim. They’ll point to their past, their circumstances, or the people around them as the reason for their unhappiness.

Sure, it can be tough to overcome adversity. But it’s also essential for personal growth and happiness.

Playing the victim is a clear sign of self-sabotage. Instead of facing their issues and working towards solutions, these individuals prefer to dwell on their problems and blame others.

2) They reject positivity

I’ve noticed this pattern in a few people I’ve known in my life. They seem to have a knack for turning positive situations into negatives, almost as if they are allergic to positivity.

For instance, I have a friend who received a significant promotion at work. Instead of celebrating, he immediately started complaining about the increased responsibility and the potential for longer hours. He completely overlooked the fact that this promotion was a clear recognition of his skills and hard work.

Instead of embracing the good things in life and using them as a springboard to further happiness, these individuals choose to focus on potential downsides. 

This negative mindset prevents them from appreciating their achievements and good fortune, effectively sabotaging their own happiness.

3) They constantly compare themselves to others

In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to fall into the trap of comparison. Social media platforms present a highlight reel of other people’s lives, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and unhappiness.

Studies have shown that constant comparison with others can lead to higher levels of stress, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Despite this, people who sabotage their own happiness frequently engage in this unhealthy habit.

They look at other people’s lives and feel that they come up short. They focus on what they lack, rather than appreciating what they have. 

This relentless comparison is like a hamster wheel – it’s exhausting, gets them nowhere, and only serves to make them more unhappy.

4) They resist change

Change is a part of life. It’s how we grow, learn and adapt. Yet, some people are so firmly stuck in their comfort zones that they resist change at all costs.

These individuals often fear the unknown or worry about losing control. They might have a set routine or way of doing things and any deviation from this can cause them anxiety.

But by resisting change, they’re also resisting opportunities for growth, improvement and yes, happiness. 

They stay in unfulfilling jobs, toxic relationships, or unhealthy lifestyles because it’s familiar.

5) They procrastinate excessively

Procrastination is something we all do from time to time. But when it becomes a habitual pattern, it might be a sign of self-sabotage.

People who constantly put off tasks and decisions are often sabotaging their own happiness. They delay actions that could lead to personal growth or improvement, thus trapping themselves in a state of stagnation.

They might blame lack of time or resources, but the truth is, they’re often just scared. Scared of failure, of success, or just of trying something new.

This chronic procrastination prevents them from achieving their goals and realizing their potential, leading to a cycle of regret and unhappiness.

6) They don’t practice self-love

Self-love is not just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental part of our wellbeing. It’s about accepting ourselves, flaws and all, and treating ourselves with kindness and respect.

Unfortunately, some people struggle with this concept. They might be overly critical of themselves, constantly focusing on their shortcomings and failures. 

This negative self-talk can be incredibly damaging, eroding their self-esteem and happiness over time.

When we don’t practice self-love, we’re essentially telling ourselves that we’re not worthy of happiness. 

7) They isolate themselves

I’ve had times in my life when I’ve felt the need to withdraw, to pull away from friends and family. It’s a natural response when you’re feeling overwhelmed or hurt. 

By cutting themselves off from their support networks, these individuals are denying themselves the chance to receive love, advice, and comfort from those who care about them. They’re erecting barriers to their own happiness.

This isolation can often be a self-fulfilling prophecy. They push people away, then feel lonely and unloved, which only serves to reinforce their unhappiness. 

It’s a destructive cycle that can be difficult to break, but recognizing it is the first step towards change.

8) They neglect their physical health

Our physical health plays a huge role in our overall well-being and happiness. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are all key factors in maintaining our mental and emotional health.

However, people who sabotage their own happiness often neglect their physical health. They might skip meals, have erratic sleep patterns, or lead a sedentary lifestyle. This neglect not only harms their physical well-being but also impacts their mood and energy levels.

By not taking care of their bodies, they’re indirectly affecting their mental state. 

9) They don’t seek help when they need it

When someone is stuck in a cycle of unhappiness and blame, it’s vital to seek help. This could be from a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional.

Yet, those who sabotage their happiness often resist this step. They might feel that they should be able to handle their problems alone, or they may fear being judged.

But seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. It takes courage to admit that you’re struggling and to reach out to others for support.

Ignoring the need for help not only prolongs their struggle but also prevents them from finding the tools and resources they need to break the cycle of self-sabotage.

Final thought: It’s a journey of self-awareness

Understanding human behavior and actions is a complex process. It is deeply intertwined with our past experiences, our internal belief systems, and our emotional responses.

When it comes to self-sabotage, it’s important to remember that it’s often a subconscious process. People who sabotage their own happiness are not usually doing so intentionally. They’re simply reacting to life based on ingrained patterns and beliefs.

The key to breaking free from self-sabotage lies in self-awareness. By recognizing these signs in ourselves or others, we take the first step towards change.

Change is not easy; it requires time, patience, and a lot of self-compassion. But the journey is worth it. Happiness awaits those who are willing to confront their self-defeating behaviors and take steps towards positive change.

So as you reflect on these signs, remember that everyone has the capacity for change. And every step taken towards self-awareness and personal growth is a step towards a happier, more fulfilling life.