There’s a strange paradox that many of us experience. Just when life seems to be going really well, anxiety creeps in. Ever wonder why?

Well, I’m not a psychologist, but I am someone who has experienced this odd phenomenon firsthand. And guess what, I’m not alone.

In fact, psychologists have identified seven common behaviors that people who get anxious when life is going well usually exhibit.

It’s fascinating stuff, and understanding it could be a game-changer for how you handle those ‘too good to be true’ moments.

Let’s dive into these behaviors. They might just shine a light on those confusing feelings of unease that can hit when you least expect it.

1) They worry… a lot

You know the saying, “When something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” But for people who get anxious when life is going well, this phrase isn’t just a saying—it’s a way of life.

When things are going well, they start to worry. About everything. They create worst-case scenarios about what could go wrong and fixate on them. It’s like they’re always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Why? Because they’re uncomfortable with peace and happiness. They’re more at ease with chaos and dysfunction. It’s what they know.

This behavior is rooted in fear and insecurity. As renowned psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “What I am is good enough if I would only be it openly.”

In other words, we need to accept ourselves as we are, with all our quirks and imperfections, instead of constantly worrying about what could go wrong.

Anxiety doesn’t just go away when things are going well. It just changes form. Understanding this is the first step towards managing it.

2) They struggle with imposter syndrome

Imposter syndrome. Ever heard of it? Well, I have. In fact, I’ve lived it.

I remember landing a job I’d been dreaming of for years. Instead of basking in the joy of my achievement, I was consumed by the fear that I’d be exposed as a fraud. That they’d realize they’d made a mistake in hiring me.

Imposter syndrome is when you’re unable to internalize your achievements, attributing your success to luck or deception rather than your own abilities or hard work.

It’s common among people who get anxious when life is going well.

This crippling self-doubt can rob you of the joy and satisfaction that comes with success. Recognizing it for what it is – anxiety masquerading as modesty – is key to overcoming it.

3) They self-sabotage

Ever find yourself saying, “I don’t deserve this”? I have. More times than I’d like to admit.

Self-sabotage is a common behavior among people who get anxious when life is going well. It’s like there’s a voice inside your head telling you that you’re not worthy of happiness or success.

You might start neglecting your responsibilities, pushing away loved ones, or engaging in unhealthy behaviors. All because deep down, you believe the good times won’t last.

Self-sabotage is a defense mechanism, a way to protect ourselves from the pain of potential failure or loss. But all it does is guarantee the very outcome we fear.

Recognizing our self-destructive tendencies is the first step towards breaking this destructive cycle and allowing ourselves to truly enjoy life’s ups and downs.

4) They constantly seek reassurance

Another behavior common among those who get anxious when life is going well is the constant need for reassurance. They’re always looking for validation from others, a sign that everything is okay.

This is something I’ve seen in friends and family members who struggle with anxiety. They often question their decisions, seek second opinions, and need constant affirmation about their worth.

According to a study, people with high levels of anxiety are more likely to seek reassurance from others. The study found that this reassurance-seeking behavior can actually exacerbate feelings of anxiety and worry.

In other words, the more we seek validation from others, the more anxious we become. It’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break free from.

But recognizing this pattern is the first step towards building self-confidence and reducing anxiety.

5) They overthink everything

Overthinking. It’s a trap I’ve fallen into more times than I can count. And it’s a common pitfall for those who get anxious when life is going well.

You replay conversations in your head, analyze every decision, and worry about the future. You find problems where there are none and create mountains out of molehills.

And it’s a form of self-torture that can rob you of peace and enjoyment.

The key is to recognize when you’re overthinking and learn to let go. It’s not easy, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

6) They avoid relaxation

Sounds counterintuitive, doesn’t it? But believe it or not, people who get anxious when life is going well often avoid relaxation.

They feel guilty for taking a break, as if they don’t deserve to rest. The idea of doing nothing and just enjoying the moment feels alien and uncomfortable to them.

Understanding that relaxation is not a luxury, but a necessity for mental health, can help break this cycle. It’s okay to slow down. In fact, it’s more than okay. It’s essential.

7) They have difficulty celebrating successes

Finally, people who get anxious when life is going well often struggle to celebrate their successes. They downplay their achievements and find it hard to accept compliments.

As psychologist Abraham Maslow said, “One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth.”

To fully appreciate our successes, we must choose growth over safety.

Remember, it’s not just okay but necessary to celebrate your wins, big or small. You’ve earned it.

Final reflections

The labyrinth of human emotions and behaviors is complex, often leading us down unexpected paths. One such path is the paradoxical anxiety that can surface when life seems to be going well.

Understanding these behaviors is not about pathologizing our reactions or categorizing them as good or bad. It’s about gaining insight into our own minds, and creating space for growth and self-improvement.

If you find yourself relating to these behaviors, remember: it’s okay. It’s okay to feel anxious when things are going well. It’s okay to question, to worry, to overthink. These are simply part of being human.

But also remember: it’s okay to let go. To enjoy the good times, to celebrate your successes, and to allow yourself a moment of relaxation.

As we navigate our way through the ebbs and flows of life, it’s essential to keep this understanding close. After all, we’re all on this journey together.