Hidden Habits That Can Hold Back Personal Growth

S Kamalakannan
Mindful Blogs
Published in
3 min readNov 13, 2024

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Photo by Tim Wenger on Matador Network

Many people are unaware of certain habits that may be holding them back. Identifying these patterns can create a pathway for genuine improvement and help unlock potential. Here’s a deeper look into these common traits.

The Trap of Perfectionism

People with high intelligence frequently set exceptionally high standards for themselves. While their attention to detail and drive for excellence can be a powerful motivator, it can sometimes become a hindrance. Perfectionism, when unchecked, often becomes a barrier that stops individuals from moving forward. The fear of making mistakes can hold them back from exploring new avenues and taking valuable risks.

Constantly chasing perfection often results in self-criticism and even procrastination. Many spend excessive time perfecting minor details, losing sight of the bigger picture. Ultimately, an obsession with flawlessness may overshadow the actual goals they wish to accomplish.

Overthinking: The Mental Treadmill

Overthinking is a habit that intelligent individuals frequently struggle with. They analyze every possible outcome, repeatedly considering “what if” scenarios. This behavior can feel like running on a mental treadmill—active yet not progressing. By constantly examining…

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S Kamalakannan
S Kamalakannan

Written by S Kamalakannan

Knowledge is a treasure, but practical application is the key to unlocking it.

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