. . . we invariably find that at some time in the past we have made decisions based on self which later placed us in a position to be hurt. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p.62

What does "we invariably find" mean?   This is what we find every time, without fail.

What does it mean that "we made decisions based on self?"  I did things my way mostly.  I made decisions based on values that were defined by me without enough outside perspective.  I based my values on my limited scope of perception.

What does "later placed us" mean?  My consequences were the result of doing things my way.

What is "a position to be hurt?"  This is an attitude of feeling ill at ease.

I made decisions based on limited perception and self-defined values which caused me to have a attitude of futility.