That, my friend, might just be your inner saboteur whispering sweet nothings to keep you safe, silent, and liked.

This month, I took a sabotage test with my coach (yes, there’s such a thing), and my number one behavior? The need to be liked. Ugh. Apparently, I justify everything I do to myself by saying, “This way people will like me more.” (Honestly, ew.)

And while I could spend a whole newsletter unpacking that, this one’s more about you. Because I’m pretty sure I’m not alone.

Here are five classic saboteur behaviors that sneak into our decisions, actions, and ambitions:

1. The People-Pleaser – Wants to be liked so badly they forget their own opinion halfway through a meeting.

2. The Controller – Believes if they don’t do it, the world will implode in 30 minutes.

3. The Avoider – Hates conflict. Dodges tough conversations like they’re dodgeballs.

4. The Hyper-Rational – Feels more at home in a spreadsheet than in a team meeting.

5. The Stickler – Obsessed with rules, order, and making slides look “perfect.” (You know who you are.)

These saboteurs aren’t just quirky personality traits. They block creativity, delay bold decisions, and keep teams stuck in safe, small thinking. And if you’re in the middle of a big change, a reorganization, or trying to lead something brave? They get LOUD.

So, what am I doing about mine (the “please like me” one)? I’m practicing boundaries. Saying, “No, I can’t do that this week,” even when I really want the gold star. And noticing how uncomfortable I feel afterwards (spoiler: very).

Wanna find your saboteur? Take the same test I did—it’s eye-opening, annoying, and slightly addictive.

Here’s the link to the Saboteur Assessment – https://www.positiveintelligence.com/saboteurs/

And write back to me—what’s your #1 saboteur? What’s it stopping you from doing?

Let’s all try dropping one tote bag this month.

All the best

Saby