Why do I feel fake excitement when telling others about my success?

It's common to experience a disconnect between internal feelings and external expressions of joy, especially after achieving something significant. This can stem from various psychological factors like imposter phenomenon, a fear of appearing boastful, or even an underlying feeling that the success doesn't quite fulfill a deeper need. Your brain might be protecting you from vulnerability or managing complex emotions around achievement.

Research suggests that up to 70% of individuals will experience imposter phenomenon at least once in their career, often dampening their ability to celebrate success authentically.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who fakes excitement when telling others about my success?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone feel fake excitement when telling others about their success?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to feel fake excitement when sharing your successes?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to fake excitement when telling others about your success?

Is It Weird?

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 empty even after achieving a big goal?▾
Achieving a significant goal doesn't always bring the lasting fulfillment we anticipate. This 'arrival fallacy' can happen when the pursuit itself was more engaging than the outcome, or when the goal didn't align with deeper values, leading to a sense of emptiness once it's reached.
What is imposter phenomenon and how does it relate to success?▾
Imposter phenomenon is the persistent internal belief that you are not as competent as others perceive you to be, despite evidence of your accomplishments. When successful, individuals with imposter phenomenon might feel like a fraud and struggle to genuinely celebrate, fearing exposure or feeling undeserving.
How can I genuinely celebrate my achievements without feeling awkward?▾
Authentic celebration often involves connecting with the personal meaning of your achievement, rather than focusing solely on external validation. Try reflecting on the effort, learning, and personal growth involved. Sharing with trusted individuals who understand your journey can also make the experience feel more genuine.

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