This book takes a cognitive-behavioral approach to help readers learn a strategy for eliminating their self-defeating behaviors. It allows readers to move logically through a complete system for eliminating such behaviors. Unit 1 presents an introduction to the book and explains how to use it. It is recommended that readers read the text and attempt the activities from Units 2 through 6 in the order in which they are presented. Suggestions are given for use of the book by individuals, participants in Eliminating Self-Defeating Behaviors (ESDB) System workshops, students, counselors, and trainers of employees in business and industry. For ESDB workshops, a six-session workshop schedule is recommended. Unit 2 deals with the SDB (self-defeating behaviors) circle, Unit 3 describes the Thoughts Exit, Unit 4 explains the Actions Exit, and Unit 5 discusses the Feelings Exit. The final unit directs the reader toward self-enhancing behaviors. ESBD strategies are reviewed, ESBD strategies for self-enhancing behavior are identified, and places where readers can turn for help are provided. Throughout each unit, sample activities are presented as they have been completed by two fictitious people who have tried to eliminate their self-defeating behaviors by using the book. These sample activities follow each activity that the reader is to complete and are presented as models or examples. (NB)