Self-image really is important, especially on the dimension of self-efficacy. There are compounding effects in both the positive and negative direction though.
I’ve used this same idea to dig myself out of ruts. When things are fucked up I’ll start paying attention to small things and deliberately “defer” progress on a few bigger things that are harder to do and more costly to fail. Each small win helps build momentum into the next-biggest challenge.
I’ve found this super useful for avoiding “habit destruction” during major life events/travel/moving.
I’ve used this same idea to dig myself out of ruts. When things are fucked up I’ll start paying attention to small things and deliberately “defer” progress on a few bigger things that are harder to do and more costly to fail. Each small win helps build momentum into the next-biggest challenge.
I’ve found this super useful for avoiding “habit destruction” during major life events/travel/moving.