Achievement Addiction: When Self-Worth Hinges on Success

For many high achievers, success is more than a goal—it’s an identity. The promotions, awards, perfect projects—they’re not just accomplishments; they become the way you measure your value. And when self-worth is tied to performance, the stakes are always high.

Every small setback can feel catastrophic. A single error in a report or a piece of negative feedback might send you into a tailspin, filled with self-doubt and rumination. You forget your wins, and focus only on the flaw.

Where does this pattern begin? Often, it starts in childhood or adolescence. Maybe you were praised for achievements more than effort. Maybe love or safety felt conditional on being the best. Over time, your identity formed around being accomplished and impressive. But now, instead of fueling confidence, it fuels anxiety.

You might be asking: if achievement has brought me success, why change? Because over time, achievement addiction leads to emotional burnout. The chase never ends, and satisfaction never sticks. That’s not a life—it’s a treadmill.

EMDR therapy can help shift this dynamic by healing the roots of performance-based self-worth. It helps you reprocess early experiences that shaped your self-concept and build a more stable, compassionate relationship with yourself. One that values who you are—not just what you do.

Want to redefine your success on your terms? Visit https://annemoigistherapy.com/ to explore EMDR therapy for high achievers.