Minh Tran
There’s quite a disparity between appearing successful and actually being successful.
Some folks put on a grand show, masking the reality of their circumstances. It’s a tricky game, pretending to be well-off when you’re barely making ends meet.
But keen observers can spot certain telltale behaviors. Those who pretend to be successful yet are battling to stay afloat often exhibit these patterns.
And it’s not about pointing fingers or shaming, but about understanding and empathy.
It’s about offering tools for self-improvement, finding balance and ultimately, achieving genuine success.
In this article, I’ll reveal these behaviors to you. Keep reading.
1) Overcompensation in material possessions
In the realm of perceived success, material possessions often take center stage.
Many individuals equate success with external symbols – luxury cars, designer outfits, high-end gadgets.
It’s a dangerous misconception, and those struggling to stay afloat often fall into this trap.
They amass these possessions, not because they can comfortably afford them, but because they’re desperately trying to fit into a mold of what they believe signifies success.
The irony is, real success doesn’t require such grand displays.
True achievers know that success is more about personal growth, fulfillment and stability – not how shiny your car is or how flashy your watch looks.
Next time you find someone constantly flaunting their latest purchases or obsessing over material things, remember that it could be a sign of them battling their own financial struggles behind the scenes.
2) They’re always ‘busy’
I have a friend, let’s call him Mark. Mark is constantly talking about how ‘busy’ he is.
Every conversation we have, he emphasizes his packed schedule and endless meetings. He seems to be under the impression that being busy equates to being successful.
I’ve noticed, however, that his busyness rarely translates into tangible results.
He’s often stressed, burnt out, and despite his constant hustle, his financial situation doesn’t seem to improve.
This behavior is quite common among those pretending to be successful. They fill their schedules to the brim, equating busyness with productivity and success.
However, truly successful people understand the value of balance.
They know that being perpetually busy isn’t a badge of honor but rather a sign of poor time management and priorities.
If you come across someone who’s always ‘too busy’, take it with a pinch of salt. They might be struggling more than they’re willing to admit.
3) They avoid discussing financial details
In a study conducted by CreditCards.com, it was revealed that finances are the least likely topic people are willing to discuss openly, even less so than death, politics, or religion.
People pretending to be successful are often part of this statistic.
They tend to avoid discussing financial details, especially when it comes to their personal finances.
This avoidance could be because they’re uncomfortable revealing the reality of their financial situation, which contradicts the successful image they’re trying to portray.
When someone continuously dodges financial discussions or becomes overly defensive when finances are mentioned, it might be a signal that they’re wrestling with monetary issues behind closed doors.
Money is a tool not a status symbol.
Genuine success is about managing it well, not just having it.
4) They’re always chasing the next big thing
Another behavior you’ll often notice in people pretending to be successful is their constant pursuit of the “next big thing”.
Whether it’s the latest business venture, a hot investment opportunity, or a trendy self-help book, they’re always on the lookout for the golden ticket to success.
This constant pursuit indicates a lack of satisfaction and stability with their current situation.
It suggests that they’re scrambling to find something that will catapult them to the success they aspire to portray.
On the other hand, truly successful people understand that there are no shortcuts.
They’re committed to their path and don’t get easily swayed by every new trend or opportunity that comes their way.
They know that real success involves patience, consistency and hard work.
5) Comparing themselves to others
I’ve been guilty of this one before. I used to constantly compare myself to others, looking at their achievements and feeling as though I was falling behind.
I found myself trying to keep up, portraying an image of success that wasn’t true to my reality.
This is a common trait among those who pretend to be successful but are struggling to get by. They’re always measuring their worth based on others’ success stories.
This comparison fuels their desire to project an image of success, even when their reality tells a different story.
True success, however, is a personal journey. It’s about being better than who you were yesterday, not being better than someone else today.
When we understand this, we stop pretending and start working towards our own version of success.
6) They rarely ask for help
Pride can often be a stumbling block on the road to success. Those who pretend to be successful often find it hard to ask for help.
They see it as a sign of weakness, fearing it might expose their struggles and shatter the successful facade they’ve been maintaining.
Genuinely successful people understand the value of seeking help and learning from others.
They know that success isn’t a solo journey and that everyone, at some point, needs guidance or assistance.
When you encounter someone who persistently refuses help or insists they’ve got everything under control, they might be struggling more than they let on.
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength and wisdom. It shows a willingness to learn and grow, key traits of real success.
7) They lack genuine happiness
Beneath the facade of success, there’s often a lack of genuine happiness.
Those pretending to be successful are usually caught up in maintaining their image that they forget to prioritize their own happiness and well-being.
Notice if someone’s outward display of success is accompanied by a constant state of stress, anxiety or dissatisfaction.
These are signs that they might be struggling internally, despite what they portray externally.
The most important thing to remember is that real success goes beyond material wealth and societal recognition.
True success is about personal growth, fulfillment, and most importantly, happiness.
If these elements are missing, all the wealth and accolades in the world won’t make a person truly successful.
Final thoughts: Authenticity is inimitable
The complexities of human behavior often mirror our internal struggles and aspirations.
Such is the case with individuals who simulate success while battling to keep their heads above water.
In the timeless words of Oscar Wilde, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
This simple yet profound quote encapsulates the essence of genuine success.
For those masking their struggles behind a facade of success, it’s important to remember that true success isn’t about material possessions or societal recognition.
It’s about personal growth, contentment, and happiness.
It’s about being comfortable in your own skin and accepting your present circumstances while striving for better.
It’s about living your truth, no matter how unglamorous it may seem to others.
As we conclude this exploration, let us ponder on the authenticity of our own journey.
Are we pursuing our own version of success, or are we merely mimicking someone else’s?
Remember, your journey is unique, and your success story doesn’t have to resemble anyone else’s.
Be authentic, be patient, and most importantly, be kind to yourself on this journey.
Because at the end of the day, authenticity is inimitable.
