Be your own worst enemy
phrase
To do or say things that prevent you from succeeding, or make things worse for you.
By not preparing for the interview, he was his own worst enemy.
Often appears as...
- became his own worst enemy
- acts like her own worst enemy
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Self-sabotage
Refers to actions that hinder your progress, often unintentionally and habitually.
He's always procrastinating, like he's his own worst enemy.
Pro Tip 2/3Irony and regret
Used when someone realizes their actions led to a negative outcome they wanted to avoid.
She became her own worst enemy by missing deadlines she set herself.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoidable problems
Implies problems could be prevented if one didn't act against their own interests.
By spreading himself too thin, he was his own worst enemy.
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