People get scared when you try to do something, especially when it looks like you're succeeding. People do not get scared when you're failing. It calms them. That's why the show Intervention is a hit and everyone loves "worrying about" Amanda Bynes. But when you're winning, it makes them feel like they're losing or, worse yet, that maybe they should've tried to do something too, but now it's too late. And since they didn't, they want to stop you. You can't let them.
Mindy Kaling discusses the perception of success and failure in her book "Why Not Me?". She notes that people often feel threatened by others who are achieving their goals, while they are more comfortable when someone is struggling. This discomfort arises from a sense of competition or inadequacy, as their own lack of action can be highlighted by someone else's success.
She points out that shows like "Intervention" and public figures facing difficulties, like Amanda Bynes, engage audiences because they evoke concern and empathy. On the contrary, witnessing someone succeed can provoke feelings of jealousy and insecurity in others, leading them to want to undermine that success. Kaling encourages readers to remain steadfast and not be dissuaded by the fears or negativity of others.
