An existential interpretation of success neurosis

The fear of success is typically interpreted as a neurosis in which the fear of change plays a central role. In spite of agreeing with the existence of this syndrome in clinical practice. this author holds that a similar ambivalence about change lurks within ourselves as well. We are especially like patients in that, in spite of their often unique conflicts, they also run away, like us, from true success. In defining the latter, the author interprets it as synonymous with living an ethical life filled with reverence and respect for all.Grateful acknowledgement is made to Stephen Getsinger, Ph.D., for having read and made numerous cogent remarks on this paper.