Are YOU the Crab!?

We've all heard the metaphor for crab mentality, or "crab bucket" mentality. It basically describes how people will attempt to pull down or sabotage anyone who tries to achieve success beyond their current level. Most of the time, it's used to reference how people in a community may become resentful towards someone who tries to succeed beyond their perceived expectation, and will try to bring them down to the level of everyone else.

The idea of the crab bucket comes from the behavior of actual crabs. When crabs are caught and put in a bucket, they will try to escape by climbing over the edge. However, as soon as one crab starts to climb out, the other crabs will pull it back down, effectively keeping all of them trapped in the bucket.

The crab bucket mentality can be seen in many different areas, including social groups, workplaces, and even families. It can be incredibly disheartening and can make it difficult for you to achieve your goals.  Another layer to this mentality is when you're at point of taking the next step forward in your journey, but hesitate.  Have you considered that maybe you're now looking for another crab to pull you down because the next step feels too scary or uncomfortable?  Or maybe, you are being the crab towards someone else?  Take some time to reflect on your surroundings and your current reality...you may be surprised to find that you are the reason you haven't taken the next step.

If you find yourself stuck in a crab bucket situation, there are a few things you can do to pull yourself back up.

     1. Identify the root cause of the crab mentality

The first step in pulling yourself out of the crab bucket is to identify the root cause of the behavior. In some cases, the crab mentality may be a result of jealousy or envy towards your success. In other cases, it may be a fear of change or an unwillingness to accept that someone can succeed beyond what is expected of them. Once you understand the root cause of the behavior, you can begin to address it directly.  This is where clearing statements can come in really handy!

     2. Surround yourself with positive influences

Surrounding yourself with positive influences can be a game changer (and even a necessity) when dealing with a crab bucket mentality. Get around people who are supportive of your goals and who will encourage you to succeed. This may mean finding a mentor or a support group of like-minded individuals who share your values and aspirations.

     3. Focus on your goals

When dealing with a crab bucket mentality, it can be easy to become discouraged and lose sight of your goals. It's important to stay focused on what you want to achieve and to keep pushing forward despite any setbacks or obstacles. Make a plan and set measurable goals for yourself, and hold yourself accountable for making progress towards those goals.

     4. Don't let the behavior of others define you

Finally, it's important to remember that the behavior of others does not define you. It's easy to get caught up in the negativity of a crab bucket situation and to start questioning your own worth and abilities. But remember that your success is not determined by the opinions of others. Keep working towards your goals and don't let anyone else's behavior hold you back (return that ish to sender!).

These 4 tips can help you shake off those "crabs" and step up to your next level...and remember...stop looking for someone to pull you back...if no one is there, you're meant to move forward!