Do you have a fear of success? Be honest with yourself, success can be scary because it can change so many things, such as relationships. Becoming a new leader is also something that creates changes, and often many women shy away from taking on a new role for fear of being successful.
Fear of Success (FOSS) was first introduced by Homer in 1972, who believed that in some circumstances women avoided success because of a fear that success may cause a loss of femininity and potentially increase social rejection.
Does this sound familiar to you?
Gender stereotypes are still a barrier to success
Gender stereotypes are changing, but disappointingly still common place in today’s society. Women may feel better supported in their career journey, yet the strains of having a great career and maintaining personal commitments can be overwhelming.
We all want to be better mothers, sisters, daughters and friends, and having a demanding career can impact on the time we have available to invest into these relationships.
Recently, while watching the movie “The Intern” starring Anne Hathaway and Robert De Niro, I was reminded of the challenges of success for women in the workplace. The main character Jules, played by Anne Hathaway considers giving up her role as CEO of a company she created so she can focus on her marriage and being a parent. In a number of scenes, Jules also faces social rejection from other parents for her success in the corporate world. It’s so unfair!
Change can be scary
Women are concerned that when we become successful, others will start to behave differently around us. Are we justified in thinking this?
Let’s assume that our experience so far in achieving success has been met with some changes to the status quo. It’s likely we have experienced jealousy from others, gossip and hurtful things may have been said – but is this our problem? NO! It’s not our problem. These issues and problems are actual the shortcomings of others, and we should not be sorry for wanting more and achieving more.
So, I need to ask – are stopping yourself from going after your dreams? Taking that next step in your career?
Are you self sabotaging?
Are you deploying covert behaviour that is undermining your success. Let me explain (with a question) are you making excuses about why you can’t something or do you have genuine fear. Reflect on the last time you said no to an opportunity that you did actual want. What was it that stopped you from going forward?
You need to recognise which behaviours are holding you back, and address these. If you do have a genuine fear of success, seek out professional support today, it will be one of the best investments you make.
If its negative thoughts and assumptions that’s stopping you, then challenge these with logical and positive affirmations. Turns affirmations into actions, and start doing!
Conclusion
We can sit on the sidelines and watch others reach for the stars. But who wants to do that, honestly? Take control of your fears, recognise what’s holding you back and take action today.
What your biggest fear with taking the next step in your career?