Self-Destructive Habits to Lose Now as a Man in the Modern World

O’lam Harriston
3 min readSep 8

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In the fast-paced and demanding modern world, men often struggle with self-destructive habits that can hinder personal growth and overall well-being. It is crucial for men to recognize and address these habits in order to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. In this article, we will explore some common self-destructive patterns that could be hampering your success that you should work towards eliminating.

1 Being Mr. Nice Guy

Are you constantly prioritizing the needs of others over your own? Do you frequently seek validation and approval from those around you? If so, you may have fallen into the habit known as being Mr. Too Nice. While kindness is an important virtue, being excessively nice can have negative effects on your well-being and relationships. Some individuals perceive overt kindness as a weakness and may try to take advantage of it. Overcoming the habit of being Mr. Too Nice requires self-awareness, establishing boundaries, developing assertiveness, recognizing manipulative behaviors and seeking support. It is important to exercise kindness in social situations, but in professional settings, fairness should take priority. Strive to maintain your kind nature, but when necessary, be assertive. Assertiveness allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and needs in a respectful manner. Aim to be a nice person, but when faced with important matters, be prepared to stand up for yourself.

2.Toxic and One-sided Friendship

Toxic and one-sided friendships can have a detrimental effect on our emotional well-being and personal growth. These types of friendships often involve an unhealthy dynamic where one person constantly takes more than they give, disregarding the needs and feelings of the other. If you have fallen into such a friendship, it is important to recognize and eliminate this habit from your life. Toxic friendships can manifest in various ways, including constant criticism, manipulation, or even emotional abuse. They often leave you feeling drained, unappreciated, and unsupported. It is crucial to identify these patterns and take steps to eliminate them. A key step in breaking this habit is to establish healthy boundaries, Communicate your needs assertively, and if your friend consistently violates your boundaries, it may be necessary to distance yourself or even end the friendship. Self-reflection is also essential.

Ask yourself why you remain in such a friendship. Are you afraid of being alone? Do you feel obligated? Recognize that your worth does not depend on the validation or approval of toxic friends. Surround yourself with people who appreciate and uplift you. Remember, friendships should be based on mutual trust, respect, and support. Eliminating toxic and one-sided friendships can be challenging, but by prioritizing your own well-being and setting boundaries, you can create space for healthier relationships in your life.

3.Procrastinating and Being Lazy

Procrastination is putting off tasks for immediate gratification or to avoid discomfort, which can lead to feelings of guilt, wasting time, and playing catch-up. Laziness is a lack of motivation or effort in an activity that consumes energy. Identifying the underlying causes — overwhelm, lack of interest, or fear of failure — can help you develop strategies to overcome procrastination and laziness. Set specific, realistic goals and break tasks down into manageable steps with deadlines to create urgency and avoid becoming overwhelmed. Minimize distractions in a comfortable environment by turning off notifications and finding a quiet place to work. Establish a routine with regular breaks to rest without indulging in excessive laziness. Accountability is key, so consider sharing your goals and progress with someone who can support you and hold you accountable. Promote motivation and discipline by finding meaning in your tasks and imagining the benefits of completing them. Give up the habit of pursuing short-term pleasure and focus on the long-term satisfaction that comes from achieving your goals. Remember to practice self-compassion and be patient with yourself. It takes time and effort to overcome these habits. Embrace a proactive mindset and take the necessary steps towards eliminating these counterproductive habits from your life.

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O’lam Harriston

OH! || Nomadic Lifestyle || Fashion || Photography