(Steve Correa & Ronald D’Souza )
Success is an elusive goal, desired by all, understood by a few — mainly by those who achieve it and are celebrated universally. Society holds up successful figures as paragons of achievement, yet beneath their poised exteriors of ‘celebrities’ lies a complex relationship with accomplishment. For many, success is a milestone — a point of achievement rather than a destination — and often, as seasoned achievers might reveal, it introduces difficult challenges. These complexities, when overlooked, can turn success into a double-edged sword, ultimately becoming a “failure of success.”
While success is often treated as the pinnacle of one’s journey, it is transient. There is always a higher milestone to reach; when one achievement is met, another beckons. As leadership expert John C. Maxwell observes, “Success is not a destination; it’s a daily effort.” In this view, the moment one begins to believe they have “arrived” can also begin a potential decline, as complacency and a lack of forward momentum can lead to stagnation. At the height of its success, the ancient Roman Empire declined for this very reason.
Moreover, success can lead to an insidious sense of permanence, making individuals susceptible to becoming possessive of their achievements. They may strive to maintain the outward markers of their success, amassing symbols of wealth and recognition. When success is the only metric, individuals risk interpreting every experience as a challenge to their self-worth, inevitably shaping how they handle failure or setbacks.
Success is heady, often altering a person’s perception of themselves and the world. Psychologically, it can foster confidence and self-assurance, which can be beneficial. Yet, this headiness can also blur one’s perception, causing a shift from humility to hubris. Research published in Harvard Business Review suggests that rapid success can create “success syndrome,” where individuals experience a heightened sense of infallibility. This can lead to narcissism, where, as they gain more accolades, they stop listening to others and lose perspective. As readers, We are certain, you can recall many names of people you know.
For instance, studies have found that executives with a string of successes are more likely to ignore dissenting opinions, making decisions that are increasingly isolated from the real-world implications. This can foster an “echo chamber” where only favourable voices are amplified, leading to flawed judgments. Historian Will Durant encapsulated this risk, noting, “The trouble with most people is that they think with their hopes or fears or wishes rather than with their minds.” Successful people often face a subtle yet profound temptation to equate their worth with their accomplishments, blurring the distinction between personal value and public validation.
A striking aspect of the “failure of success” is the absence of a continuous learning mindset. Success, paradoxically, is built on a foundation of failures. Experiences of failure demand introspection, resilience, and adaptation — qualities that are the backbone of lasting success. When individuals encounter and overcome setbacks, they learn adaptability, humility, and the ability to persevere, all of which are instrumental in sustaining long-term success.
An illustrative example is J.K. Rowling, who faced numerous rejections before publishing Harry Potter. Reflecting on her journey, she observed, “Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” This speaks to the idea that it is often through failure that people gain the insights necessary to handle future success with grace and stability. Successful people who ignore past failures risk developing what psychologists call “success amnesia,” a condition where they forget the lessons and struggles that initially drove their success.
A critical element in the psychology of success is the emotional toll it can exact. With increasing expectations, the pressure to maintain a public persona of success can become overwhelming. The Japanese concept of “Ikigai,” which refers to finding a sense of purpose and direction in life, suggests that true fulfillment comes from balancing personal values with professional achievements. Success not aligned with a deeper purpose can feel hollow and fleeting, prompting questions of self-worth and identity.
Success can hinder emotional growth if pursued without a balanced perspective. Emotional resilience and adaptability are essential to weathering achievements and setbacks. Psychologist Carol Dweck’s research on the “growth mindset” reveals that those who perceive success as a continual learning process are better equipped to handle life’s inevitable ups and downs. A growth-oriented perspective allows successful people to see failure as part of a larger journey rather than a definitive end.
As Dweck explains, “Becoming is better than being.” Individuals who embrace this mindset are more likely to maintain humility and remain grounded, focusing on evolving rather than merely arriving. Adopting a resilient approach helps manage setbacks and enhances the capacity to derive meaning from success, fostering a healthier balance between ambition and self-awareness.
Ultimately, the “failure of success” can be avoided by redefining what success truly means. Instead of chasing external markers, individuals can focus on personal growth, learning, and contribution to others as measures of their success. This approach shifts the focus from accumulating accomplishments to fostering connections and a sense of purpose. For instance, Mahatma Gandhi’s success was not measured by wealth or accolades but by his lifelong dedication to principles and the welfare of humanity.
To navigate the risks associated with success, individuals can benefit from regularly revisiting their core values and reassessing their goals. Embracing failure as an inevitable part of success, staying open to feedback, and cultivating a balanced sense of self-worth can create a more grounded approach. This, in turn, leads to a healthier relationship with success, enabling one to sustain achievements without compromising personal well-being.
The failure of success serves as a reminder that achievement while rewarding, is not the ultimate goal. Without balance, success can foster arrogance, encourage materialism, and lead to a skewed perception of reality. However, by maintaining humility, embracing a growth mindset, and aligning success with personal values, individuals can achieve a sense of fulfillment beyond temporary accolades. Success, when approached with an understanding of its limitations, can be both meaningful and sustainable, enriching the journey rather than overshadowing it.
Steve Correa is an Executive Coach and Author of The Indian Boss at Work, Thinking Global, Acting Indian
Ronald D’Souza has Corporate and Consulting Experience and mentors new startups.
This article appeared on Medium on 31st October 2024
https://medium.com/@stevecorrea.com/how-success-can-fail-and-its-challenges-5602cbe02f05
Share this post