You know exactly what you should be doing - but you just don't do it. Instead of exercising, you scroll through social media. Instead of starting, you procrastinate. Everyone knows this sluggish, reluctant feeling: the one's weaker self. But what is actually behind it? In this article, you will find out where it comes from, what it is trying to tell you and how you can learn not only to overcome it, but also to use it as a signal for real change.
The "inner bastard" is a colloquial term for the psychological tendency to put off unpleasant things or stand in one's own way. It is not a real enemy, but an expression of inner resistance: fear, perfectionism, habit or lack of motivation.
From a neurobiological perspective, our brain prefers short-term rewards to long-term benefits. The inner bastard is therefore an energy-saving program that wants to protect you from supposed effort - often at the expense of your goals.
Resistance rarely comes from laziness. There are usually deeper triggers involved:
These psychological mechanisms can be overcome - if you recognize and reflect on them (More on the topic of self-sabotage).
In the short term, avoiding unpleasant tasks brings relief. But in the long term, you pay a high price:
The good news is that everyone can learn self-efficacy. You don't need radical discipline, but rather access to your true inner drives.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are many effective strategies. The important thing is to find out what works for you.
Define what you really want - not what you "should" do. A goal with an emotional connection has more driving force.
Plans that are too big are overwhelming. Start with something small: five minutes of exercise, write a page, make a phone call.
Automated habits require less willpower. A fixed time or place helps you to stick to it.
Instead of fighting against resistance, you can acknowledge it: What do I really need right now?
"Your inner bastard is not an opponent, but a guide. It shows you where development is still possible."
- Dr. Stefan Frädrichfounder of Greator and motivational expert
It is often not circumstances, but deeply rooted beliefs that hold us back. If you believe "I'm just not sporty" or "I can't motivate myself", your behavior will follow suit.
You can question and rewrite these inner sentences through targeted reflection, coaching or journaling (Dissolve beliefs).
Sometimes a little impulse from outside helps to outwit the inner bastard:
A particularly effective way to get started is the free Training to dissolve inner blockages. Here you will learn to recognize mental and emotional resistance - and to resolve it sustainably.
In the following video, expert Dr. Stefan Frädrich explains how you can motivate your inner couch potato.
Your inner bastard is not a character flaw, but a protective mechanism - but it no longer has to control you. With clarity, realistic goals and a conscious approach to your emotions, you can learn to understand and transform it.
If you're ready to get to know yourself better, sign up for our free course "This is how you dissolve your blockades" - and take the first step towards real change.