That feeling of emptiness isn’t uncommon. In fact, psychologists have identified specific behaviors that people experiencing this inner void often display without even realizing it. These aren’t the obvious signs you might expect, but rather oddly specific patterns that serve as unconscious attempts to cope with or mask that hollow feeling inside. The planning stage feels safe and hopeful, but taking action means risking failure and confronting the possibility that even achieving these goals won’t fill the void they’re experiencing. The path forward isn’t about stopping these behaviors cold turkey, but rather getting curious about what they’re protecting us from feeling.