Does everyone feel empty after reaching a major life goal?

Many individuals report experiencing a sense of emptiness or anticlimax once a significant achievement is reached. This feeling can be surprising, especially after years of striving and anticipation. It's a common human experience to find that the intense satisfaction imagined during the pursuit doesn't always materialize or lasts only briefly.

Research suggests that up to 30% of high achievers report experiencing a period of post-achievement letdown or 'arrival fallacy' after reaching significant milestones.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who still feels empty after reaching a major goal?

Am I the Only One?

Is it normal to still feel empty after achieving a major life goal?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to still feel empty after achieving a major life goal?

Is It Weird?

Why do I still feel empty after reaching a major goal?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

For a bunch of dead flowers? …

achievement emptiness

i feel so bad like REALLY bad and i dunno who to even tell this to like nobody gets it i got married last weekend to my boyfriend we been together like forever since college or whatever and everyone… …

achievement emptiness

Am I the only one who got married to my long-time boo yesterday, like, all fancy and stuff, and woke up today just… sad? …

achievement emptiness

The big fancy award thing. …

achievement emptiness

You spend your whole damn life doing everything by the book, working hard, saving up, so you can have that little slice of the American dream. …

achievement emptiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel down after achieving something big?▾
The period immediately following a major achievement can sometimes bring a dip in mood because the intense focus and purpose that drove you towards the goal are suddenly absent. The thrill of the chase often provides its own form of satisfaction, which can be missed once the objective is met.
Is it normal to feel disappointed after success?▾
Yes, it is quite normal to feel a sense of disappointment or even anticlimax after achieving a long-sought success. Often, our expectations of how we will feel are much grander than the reality, leading to a gap between anticipation and experience.
What should I do when I feel empty after a goal?▾
When you feel empty after reaching a goal, it can be helpful to reflect on what truly motivated you. Consider setting new, meaningful objectives, or explore activities that bring a sense of purpose and connection beyond specific achievements. Sometimes, simply allowing yourself to rest and integrate the experience is beneficial.

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