Let’s be honest, self-sabotage is one of those sneaky habits that can creep into the way we work without us even realizing it. In Agile, especially if you’re leading a team or have a major influence, you can easily fall into the trap of pushing things in a direction that doesn’t reflect reality, but rather your ego or the vision of a Product Owner or any other role, even if it’s not the best path for the team.
You know how it goes: maybe you’ve got some unrealistic deadline that doesn’t reflect real needs, or you’re driving the team based on your personal vision rather than what’s best for the project. You start rushing things, forcing the team into a direction that’s actually against the Agile spirit. And just like that, self-sabotage kicks in, and without meaning to, you’re the one slowing down progress.
How Are You Self-Sabotaging Without Realizing It?
Self-sabotage in Agile can sneak up on you in a few ways:
- Pushing the team toward your vision: You may have a clear idea of how things should go, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best direction. Every team member should have a voice and contribute, not just follow blindly what you or the product owner think.
- Rushing the process to meet unrealistic targets: When you push the team to meet goals that are disconnected from reality and more about your own need for validation, you risk damaging the project. Why? Because Agile is about being flexible and realistic, not chasing illusions.
- Over-controlling: Instead of guiding the team, you’re trying to control every step. You think you’re helping, but in reality, you’re robbing them of the chance to grow and contribute authentically. This affects not only the results but also the team’s morale.
Individuals and Interactions Over Processes and Tools
Remember this? To avoid self-sabotage, return to one of Agile’s core values: Individuals and interactions over processes and tools. This means being there for the team, listening to them, and letting them grow and develop on their own. Don’t impose your vision, let them discover it together, with your guidance, but not under your influence. There’s a big difference here.
Communication is key. Every team member should have the space and right to express their ideas. This is how you create an environment where everyone truly contributes to the project, without feeling like they’re just following a dictated direction.
Self-Sabotage in Relationships
The same principle applies to personal life. You can sabotage a relationship by trying to impose your vision, whether it’s in friendships, family, or partnerships, you name it. If you try to control every aspect, rush things, or focus on what you think is right instead of collaborating and listening, you’ll end up sabotaging the connection.
How Does Self-Sabotage Hurt You, and How Can You Stop It?
Self-sabotage leads to stress, poor results, and a demotivated team (or tense relationships, if we’re talking personal life). But the good news is, you can avoid it if you remember that communication and collaboration are key. Let the team voice their opinions, offer support, and don’t impose your vision. This creates an environment where good ideas come from everyone, not just from those trying to control the direction.
Be a guide for the team, not their dictator, and you’ll see things naturally fall into place. The team will find solutions, adapt, and most importantly, grow. The same applies to any relationship: be open, listen, and give space for others to contribute.
Trying to be better every day? Start by not sabotaging yourself!
