Fear of Success Quiz: Are Your Fears Holding You Back?

Feeling at least somewhat uncomfortable when new, exciting challenges present themselves, such as a new job, moving to a new place, getting promoted at work, or the possibility of fulfilling your dreams, is common. Most people, however, will easily overcome this discomfort and keep moving in the desired direction.

However, for some people, the idea of raising the bar can be extremely stressful. They worry excessively about all the implications of success: there is more responsibility, people will be counting on them, someone might find out that they aren’t as smart or talented as they thought, they may not fit in with their social circle anymore, and many other concerns.

This fear of success can lead to failing to take advantage of opportunities and, generally, feeling stuck in life.

This quiz is designed to highlight your fears and concerns regarding success. Once you become aware of these negative beliefs and behaviors, you can take steps to eliminate them. Please note that this quiz is not a diagnostic tool and is not scientifically validated.

If you have any doubts about your results or if you are struggling with fear of success, it is important to seek the help of a professional, such as a life coach or psychologist. They can provide a more thorough evaluation and offer support and guidance to help you overcome your fears and achieve your goals.

I am concerned about the pressure and expectations that may come with success.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

Just thinking about my big goals makes me feel stressed and anxious.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I have a hard time setting goals.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I always feel like I am not ready because there is something I don’t know yet.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I worry that success will lead to isolation from my social circle.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

Becoming successful can make me more vulnerable, and this thought makes me very uncomfortable.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I feel awkward when someone praises me for my accomplishments.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I worry about all the unwanted attention that success might bring.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

To become successful, I have to stop being my authentic self.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I might have to choose between success and happiness in my personal life.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I can never make time to pursue my goals.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I don’t want to take on more responsibility for the sake of my goals.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I am concerned about the potential conflicts I will have to face if I am successful.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I am not ready to give my goals all the time and energy they need.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

Maybe I am not ready to be successful yet.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I feel overwhelmed when new opportunities present themselves.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I really don’t want to compete with anyone.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

For some reason, I feel guilty when I achieve something I’ve been working toward.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I don’t want my family and friends to expect even more from me.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

I don’t believe that I have the skills and abilities it takes to be successful.
Agree
Agree partially
Disagree

GET RESULTS

0-10

If you scored 10 or less, it’s unlikely that you have any serious issues with fear of success. Generally, you are probably comfortable with taking on new challenges and responsibilities and don’t let opportunities pass you by.

11-25

At this level, you may feel some anxiety or uncertainty about pursuing success, but you are still willing to take risks and try new things. You may worry about the potential consequences of success, such as increased responsibility or scrutiny, but you are willing to work through these fears in order to achieve your goals.

26-40

If you scored this high, you might be very uncomfortable with the increased risks and responsibilities that come with success. You may struggle to achieve your goals because you are concerned about the increased pressure and expectations. You may worry about how your existing relationships will be affected by your success. You may also doubt your own skills and abilities and may stop yourself from working on your goals because you are afraid that someone will “discover” your inadequacy and embarrass you. This isn’t an official diagnosis or disorder, but it’s a good idea to address these fears with a life coach or therapist to help yourself become more confident and successful.

You may also find this test useful:

Imposter Syndrome Test