Self-handicapping is a negative behavior pattern that arises from fear of failure, and it can have lasting impacts on personal and professional success. However, through an understanding of the Twelve Nidanas of dependent origination and mindfulness, it is possible to break the cycle of self-handicapping and achieve greater personal growth.

The progression through the Twelve Nidanas begins with ignorance, which refers to a lack of understanding of oneself and the true nature of reality. From there, mental formations develop as a result of fear of failure, leading to habits of self-handicapping such as procrastination and excuse-making. These mental formations condition consciousness and shape the psychophysical constituents that make up the person, making them more susceptible to negative thought patterns and behaviors.

The sense organs then interact with the external world in a way that reinforces fear of failure and avoidance, and an encounter with a triggering event can lead to the pleasure of avoiding high expectations or the pain of being criticized. This desire to protect self-esteem or avoid criticism intensifies attachment to self-handicapping behaviors, further entrenching the cycle.

Breaking the cycle of self-handicapping involves a progression through the Twelve Nidanas in reverse order. It begins with recognizing and addressing negative behaviors at the point of ignorance, acknowledging personal abilities and limits, and aligning goals with realistic expectations. Developing new patterns of thought and behavior, cultivating a more open and positive mindset, and recognizing the negative self-concept associated with self-handicapping are also important steps.

Being mindful of the external world and its impact on emotional state and behavior, interrupting habitual patterns of self-handicapping behavior, and being mindful of emotional responses that arise from contact can also help break the cycle at various points in the Twelve Nidanas. Additionally, cultivating resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from mistakes and failures instead of avoiding them are important steps in breaking the cycle.