You write, “What I am saying is that when something is off in job search or performance, it’s wise to ask whether there’s a chance that unconscious self-protection is manifesting as self-sabotage. And that could be equally true if the lawyer is interviewing public service agencies while really want to work in a large firm and earn scads of money. ”

I think this can be true in many sitsuations. In addition, I think it’s also important to consider that a self-image one has that says, “I am lacking and deficient in some way, shape or form” can also be at play and lead to self-sabotage. The conscious question, “Who do I think I am and who do I take myself to be?” can also reveal underlying, negative asssumptions and beliefs that can cause one to trip up, stumble, play “small”, and otherwise act as if one feels invisible, unworthy and value-less.

Too, fear can be viewed as “faith returning”. Not faith as in religion but faith (courage)ion one’s self….if, one is willing and able to go through the fear, experience it and see what’s underneath it, as opposed to going around it.

Wonderful post and thanks.