You have to draw up some reasonable standards for yourself, be willing to match some guy with high standards, and then stick to it and not settle for less. The fact that you're falling at all is one of your problems, I'd wager. Stepping forward is very different than falling flat on your face. With the first you stay equal with the guy, the second you're on the floor. The question is whether or not you can hold yourself to deciding intelligently or can't help your actions. Self-control, self-esteem, and non-conformity.