We all want to do well in life. We all want to change for the better. No one wants to be the worst version of them self. It is very difficult, however to get to a place where we are willing to do the necessary work to get what we want: whether that is being more connected to others, being healthier, or going to the next level professionally. We all want things, but I think we all talk ourselves into disaster because we're afraid of actively pursuing those things. To a degree we all self-sabotage. Here are five things you can start doing right now that can help with this behavior:

1. Never use, "That's just how things are," as an excuse not to change .

If you notice that you have a bad habit, it is not within anyone's best interest to have a defeatist's attitude. It is one thing to accept one's own limitations if they truly cannot be helped but there are some things that absolutely can. For example, if you notice you haven't been feeling great because you've been eating terribly and not getting enough rest instead of being resigned to "I guess I'll just keep eating bad food and keep feeling terrible," it may behoove you to start eating healthier and going to bed a few hours earlier. Saying "yes" to self-improvement is never a bad thing.

2. Listen to people that have your best interest at heart.

I have trouble with this one myself sometimes, but I am working on it. It is very possible that human beings are ultra sensitive to criticism because we have the desire to always get things right. An ounce of humility can come in handy when someone who cares about you is giving advice. Instead of reading their good advice as a put down try approaching it as them caring enough to help.

3. Instead of doing things the way they've always been done, try a different approach.

Sometimes, if you're stuck in a rut, it can be one of your own making. It's not always because you're a bad person, it can sometimes be because we're an inherently lazy culture that's built on expediency not necessarily better results. Sometimes you have to think outside the box and sometimes the solution required might be longer and more uncomfortable than you are used to, but it may be the one that yields the best results.

4. Watch out for secret sabotagers.

You know the ones, the treacherous ones who masquerade as people who care about you but are secretly throwing salt in your game all along. Beware the toxic relationship, because these people mean you harm. These people will smile in your face and all the while be plotting to destroy you behind your back. These people are petty, jealous, and no one you need in your life. If you think this applies to someone in your circle place some distance between the two of you, it's for the better.

5. Say, "I can," more than, "I can't."

Of course there may be literal constraints or barriers that are unavoidable but this is in regards to rising to meet challenges that may be a bit uncomfortable, but won't kill you. Sometimes, giving yourself a push out of your comfort zone can be one of the best things you can do for yourself. It may sound trite, but conquering fears and learning and rising to meet challenges instead of cowering from them is really the most liberating thing you can do for yourself!