The Paradox of Progress: Why Do We Worry When Things Start Going Well?

In the grand theater of life, when the spotlight finally turns towards us and things begin to fall into place, an unexpected and perplexing emotion often creeps in – worry. Why is it that just when the stars align, and success seems within grasp, we find ourselves battling an undercurrent of anxiety?

Let’s reflect on a journey into the psychology of this paradox, exploring the fascinating realms of human nature between comfort and concern.


The Comfort Zone Conundrum

As creatures of habit, we tend to find comfort in the familiar, even when it’s a comfort born out of adversity. When life throws us a curveball, we adapt, we overcome, and we grow. However, when the pendulum swings in our favor, the newfound comfort can become an unexpected discomfort. The fear of the unknown, of uncharted territory, whispers in our minds, urging us to cling to the safety of what we know.

Imposter Syndrome’s Silent Symphony

Success often brings with it a silent companion – imposter syndrome. As accolades accumulate and victories pile up, a nagging doubt can surface, convincing us that we’re not truly deserving of our achievements. The worry that we’ll be unmasked as impostors, not worthy of the success we’ve attained, can cast a shadow over our triumphs.

Fear of Loss

The fear of losing what we’ve gained can be a powerful force. Whether it’s a thriving career, a blossoming relationship, or personal accomplishments, the worry of seeing our achievements crumble can be deeply ingrained. This fear often pushes us to overanalyze, overplan, and inadvertently sabotage our own success in an attempt to prevent potential losses.

Psychological Set Point

Psychologists suggest that individuals have a psychological set point – a baseline level of happiness and well-being. When life starts to exceed this set point, our subconscious may resist, pulling us back to the familiar emotional equilibrium. The worry during good times might be a defense mechanism, attempting to keep us within the bounds of what feels ‘normal’ and safe.


The paradox of worrying when things are going well is a testament to the complexity of the human psyche.

As we navigate the peaks and valleys of life, understanding and acknowledging these worries becomes crucial. It’s in this awareness that we can begin to untangle the threads of our anxieties, allowing ourselves to fully embrace the joy of success without the haunting shadows of doubt.

The next time success knocks on your door, invite it in, share a cup of gratitude, and let the worry take a backseat to the triumph of the moment.

Uday JoshiComment