“Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” This line from The Godfather: Part II has become famous across national and generational lines. The idea has been repeated and rephrased in dozens of books, songs, movies and TV shows. Some people follow this adage in real life, and some people keep their greatest enemy inside their own skin.
You have probably heard the phrase “you are your own worst enemy,” and you may have rolled your eyes when you heard it. The expression has become a staple of self-help books and inspirational blogs everywhere. The idiom has become popular, however, because it is true. Most of us would never dare to treat another person the way we treat ourselves. We would push back or cut ties with the person being cruel. Whether for better or for worse, you can’t cut ties with yourself. You can, however, learn how to stop being your own worst enemy.
Before you can break a habit, you must admit that you possess that habit. If you want to stop being your own nemesis, you have to first admit that you are at odds with yourself. That said, how do you know if you are your own adversary? When does setting high expectations or being a little hard on yourself tip over into arch-rival territory? Here are nine signs to help you decide if you are your own worst enemy.