Do you ever wonder how some people build ideal lives and relationships while we are just getting by with the bare minimum?”
“What sets the best apart from the rest of us? Aren't they the same as us? Where does this difference come from?”
“Are you sabotaging your own life, relationships, and career in the name of humility and mediocrity?”
If any of the above statements apply to you, you might be experiencing what is known as the Jonah Complex.
You might be thinking, "Why do psychologists feel the need to label and categorize people?"
Well-well, the idea is not label but to help you reflect and initiate uncomfortable conversations that encourage you to think deeply about who you are and what you want to do with your life, beyond mindless living and doomscrolling
Buckle up as we explore what the Jonah Complex is:
Inspired by the biblical character Jonah, who tried to escape his divine calling due to fear of success and responsibility, the Jonah Complex was identified by the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow, famous for his Hierarchy of Needs. Maslow, a humanist, believed in the untapped potential within each of us and asserted that those who can tap into their true potential move towards self-actualization.
Most of us merely exist without spending time to understand who we are, let alone exploring our potential. The Jonah Complex involves running away from our best potential and settling for mediocrity, keeping us trapped in our comfort zones and preventing us from embracing the greatness within.
In Asian cultures, where humility and modesty are deeply ingrained, the Jonah Complex manifests as a fear of success and the accompanying responsibilities and visibility. This leads to repressing one's potential.
Isn't this the same as impostor syndrome?
Not quite. Impostor syndrome involves self-doubt and attributing success to external factors, creating a fear of being exposed as a fraud. The Jonah Complex, on the other hand, stems from a fear of success and the responsibilities, visibility, and potential arrogance that might come with it. This self-sabotaging mindset holds us back from reaching our potential.
History has shown that pride in excellence can delude us into believing we are supreme, preventing us from recognizing our human limitations. So, if you are shying away not knowing how to embrace your true potential by staying humble. Here are some strategies that will enable you to stop settling for the less and overcome Jonah Complex:
To sum up, let's quote the words of Maslow and learn to embrace our potential to lead a fulfilling life:
"You must be aware not only of the godlike possibilities within but also of the existential human limitations. You must be able simultaneously to laugh at yourself and at all human pretensions. If you can be amused by the worm trying to be a god, then, in fact, you may be able to go on trying and being arrogant without fearing paranoia or bringing down upon yourself the evil eye. Conscious awareness, insight, and 'working through' is the answer here. This is the best path I know to the acceptance of our highest powers, and whatever elements of greatness or goodness or wisdom or talent we may have concealed or evaded.”
About the Author
Revathi is a Counseling Psychologist and International Career Coach (NCDA, USA Certified Career Service Provider) with over four years of experience in mental health and wellness counseling, training, and education. Having conducted over 700+ hours of adult individual counseling sessions, she specializes in intrapersonal, career, and relationship domains. Revathi has delivered 15+ training sessions in Mental Health and Wellness and is a fervent believer in preventive mental health. Her mission is to make mental health accessible and affordable, overcoming stigma and unawareness.