(informal) to create a situation that is difficult to get out of.

(idiomatic) to refuse to change one's plans or ideas, especially when counseled otherwise / Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see dig, heel, in.

present participle of dig one's heels in

present participle of dig up dirt

present participle of dig in one's heels

Someone that plans harm or misfortune for others may also inadvertently be the recipient of that same misfortune.

(idiomatic) To behave in a way that is likely to have future negative effects on oneself, including (but not limited to) death.

(informal) To shorten one's lifespan through unhealthy eating.

Alternative form of dig one's grave with a fork

When finding oneself in a troubling situation, one should first make sure one is not making the situation worse by his own actions before addressing all other causes.