The Hidden Fear of Success: Why ‘What If It Works?’ Matters
We’re conditioned to prepare for failure, but what about the anxiety of success? New insights explore the science behind why ‘what if it works out?’ can be more daunting than ‘what if it fails?’
- Understanding the brain’s reaction to unpredictable change, even positive change.
- Exploring the two common reactions: avoidance (fear of success) and autopilot ambition (blind pursuit).
- Introducing a framework for ‘strategic success’ through conscious reflection.
Beyond Fear of Failure: The Anxiety of Success
Countless resources focus on navigating failure. But the possibility of things going exceptionally well can trigger a surprising amount of unease. This isn’t about complacency; it’s about the complex psychological response to positive, unpredictable outcomes.
What happens when a project exceeds expectations, a funding round closes, or a long-sought promotion materializes? The question, “What if it works?” forces a confrontation with potential changes to our lives, identities, and comfort zones.
The Brain’s Unpredictability Alarm
Research indicates the brain’s threat detection system doesn’t discriminate between positive and negative unpredictability. Sudden success, recognition, or new opportunities can activate the same anxiety pathways as danger. This often manifests as a subconscious “Oh no, now what?” reaction, a desire to regain control over an uncertain, albeit positive, situation.
Two Paths Diverged: Avoidance vs. Autopilot
Faced with this discomfort, individuals typically adopt one of two strategies:
- Fear of Success (Avoidance): Driven by loss aversion, this path involves shying away from success because it often means relinquishing valued aspects of life – comfort, privacy, predictability, or a stable sense of self. The perceived losses can overshadow the abstract gains of achievement.
- Blind Pursuit of Success (Autopilot Ambition): This is the relentless chase for success, fueled by the promise of security and validation. It operates on the assumption that ‘more is better’ without questioning if the ambition aligns with personal values or the desired life structure. This can lead to achieving goals that ultimately feel misaligned, like climbing a ladder against the wrong wall.
The Third Way: Strategic Success
Instead of reacting instinctively, a more effective approach is strategic success. This involves intentionally creating space for reflection to understand what success truly means for one’s life and whether those outcomes align with core values and priorities. It’s a shift from reactive behavior to conscious choice.
A Framework for Designing Your Success
For anyone pursuing a significant goal—be it a career shift, a business venture, or a creative project—a metacognitive exercise can prove invaluable:
- Name the Success Clearly: Define the specific, concrete outcome (e.g., “Launch my e-commerce store,” “Secure Series A funding,” “Publish my novel”).
- List Potential Changes: Consider the impact on your daily routine, energy levels, relationships, responsibilities, finances, social dynamics, and personal identity. How would becoming “the founder” or “the author” feel?
- Ask “Do I Actually Want That?”: Honestly assess your feelings about potential consequences like increased visibility, managing larger teams, or accepting new pressures. Does the upside justify the potential downsides?
- Adjust Accordingly: Use this information to refine your definition of success, implement safeguards for what matters most, or even re-evaluate the pursuit itself.
This brief exercise can prevent years of effort spent chasing achievements that appear desirable externally but feel internally misaligned. It empowers you to design a version of success you are genuinely willing and eager to live with.
Editor’s Take
The concept of “strategic success” is a crucial counterpoint to the often relentless, external-validation-driven pursuit of achievement prevalent in both the tech and creative industries. We often celebrate the ‘hustle culture’ without questioning the destination. This framework, rooted in self-awareness and metacognition, provides a much-needed pause. It’s not about lacking ambition; it’s about ensuring ambition serves your life, rather than consuming it. In a world where burnout is rampant, understanding what success truly means *to you* is perhaps the most strategic move one can make.
This article was based on reporting from Ness Labs. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
