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

Many people find that the intense satisfaction they anticipated after achieving a significant life goal doesn't last, or doesn't arrive at all. This feeling often stems from the 'arrival fallacy,' where we mistakenly believe a single achievement will bring lasting happiness. Our brains are wired to focus on the pursuit, and the dopamine hit of accomplishment can be fleeting, leaving us searching for the next challenge rather than savoring the present.

Research from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that over 50% of people experience a temporary dip in mood or an 'arrival fallacy' after achieving a long-sought goal.

See other perspectives

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

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone feel empty after reaching a major life goal?

Does Everyone?

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?

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

Is it normal to feel unsatisfied after achieving a big goal?▾
Yes, it's a surprisingly common experience. The build-up and anticipation leading to a major accomplishment often generate more sustained positive emotion than the actual moment of achievement itself. Many people report a sense of anticlimax or even a dip in mood once the initial excitement fades.
How can I find lasting fulfillment beyond big achievements?▾
Lasting fulfillment often comes from a combination of factors beyond singular achievements. Focusing on meaningful relationships, contributing to something larger than yourself, engaging in activities that align with your values, and cultivating a sense of purpose in daily life can provide a more stable foundation for well-being than chasing the next big win.
What if my goal wasn't what I truly wanted?▾
Sometimes, we pursue goals that we've been told are important, or that society values, without deeply examining if they align with our own desires. If you feel empty, it might be an opportunity to reflect on whether this goal was truly yours, or if it was a reflection of external expectations. Re-evaluating your core values can help you identify more authentic aspirations.

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