"If, by repeated negative self-criticism, we acquire a belief that we’re “screw-ups,” that belief will find a way to express itself in our thoughts, causing us to become distracted and to screw up;
on our words, causing us to say things about ourselves or about others (if we notice the same characteristics in them) that reflect our belief;
and on our actions, causing us to behave in ways that are overtly self-sabotaging."