Facing the Paradox | 5 Steps to Conquering The Fear of Success
- Chris Barber
- Aug 8, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 27, 2023
In the realm of personal development and ambition, much is said about the fear of failure. It’s a common adversary, lurking in the shadows, instilling doubt and apprehension. But there's another subtle and often overlooked fear that can be equally paralyzing: the fear of success.
Yes, it sounds paradoxical. Why would anyone fear success? Isn’t success the end goal of every aspiration, every dream? On the surface, it seems counterintuitive. However, when we dive deeper into the human psyche, the reasons behind this fear begin to surface.
Why Fear Success?
1. Change is Uncomfortable – Achieving success invariably implies change. You might be required to take on new responsibilities, adapt to new environments, or even redefine your identity. For many, the status quo, even if unsatisfying, offers a comfort zone. Success thrusts you out of that zone, pushing you into uncharted waters. You may think you’re ready, but when the opportunity presents itself, you may ultimately decide that you’re not for a variety of reasons.
2. Increased Expectations – With success comes increased expectations. If you write a bestselling novel, you'll be expected to replicate that success in your next one. If you transform a business into a profit-generating machine, stakeholders will expect even better results next time. The pressure of these expectations can be daunting.
3. Fear of the Unknown – Many of us are afraid of what we don't know. Success, especially if it's significantly different from our current state, represents an unknown variable. We begin to ask: What will life look like when I achieve my goals? Will my relationships change? Will I change?
4. Worries About Authenticity – Achieving significant success might lead you to question your worthiness. You might start to feel like an imposter, wondering if you truly deserve the accolades and rewards.
Overcoming the Fear of Success
Understanding the fear is the first step towards conquering it. Here are some strategies to face and overcome this apprehension:
1. Embrace Change – Accept that change is a constant in life. Every experience we have, every challenge we face, shapes and changes us in some way. Success is just another facet of that transformation. Reframe your mindset to view change as an opportunity for growth, rather than a threat.
2. Set Realistic Expectations – It’s important to set achievable goals for yourself. Understand that nobody, no matter how successful, has a perfect track record. Mistakes and setbacks are part of the journey. By setting realistic expectations, you reduce the pressure you put on yourself.
3. Seek Support – Surround yourself with a strong support system; friends, family, mentors, or coaches who understand your aspirations and fears. Share your apprehensions with them. Often, just vocalizing your fears can diminish their power.
4. Affirm Your Worth – Combat imposter syndrome by reminding yourself of your achievements, both big and small. Create a “brag file”—a collection of positive feedback, accolades, or accomplishments. Whenever you doubt yourself, doubt your doubts and revisit this file.
5. Educate Yourself – The unknown becomes less intimidating when it’s known. If you're afraid of what success might bring, educate yourself about it. If you're aiming to start a successful business, talk to successful entrepreneurs. If you're writing a book, connect with successful authors. This can demystify the path ahead and allow you to settle into your hard-earned success.
Embrace Your Potential
The journey toward our dreams is filled with numerous challenges. While the fear of failure is openly discussed and recognized, the fear of success remains a silent roadblock for many. By acknowledging it and understanding its roots, you can confront and conquer this fear.
Embrace your potential, recognize your worth, and step confidently into the success that awaits you. Remember, success is not just about reaching the destination—it's about growing, evolving, and learning along the way.
Chris Barber is a freelance writer and contributor to the blog. His desire is to write scripts and pursue his dreams of story telling. If you would like to contact Chris with an opportunity and or feedback, visit our Meet The Team page.
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