Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, March 28, 2024
In an era dominated by technological advancements, the definition of success has undergone a radical transformation. The digital age has ushered in a new wave of opportunities, connectivity, and information sharing, but it has also given rise to unrealistic standards of success that permeate every aspect of our lives. As society becomes increasingly digitised, the pressure to meet these unattainable benchmarks has never been more palpable.
Pervasive influence
One of the primary culprits behind the perpetuation of unrealistic success standards is the pervasive influence of social media. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter have become virtual stages where individuals showcase curated glimpses of their lives.
While these platforms can be powerful tools for connectivity and self-expression, they have also become breeding grounds for comparison and a breeding ground for unrealistic expectations.
The carefully crafted images and success stories shared on social media often paint an incomplete picture of reality. People showcase their achievements, possessions, and experiences, creating an illusion of a flawless life.
This constant exposure to idealised versions of success can lead to a distorted perception of what it means to be successful. The pressure to live up to these digitally enhanced standards has a profound impact on mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Changing metrics of success
“In the tech-driven professional world, success is often equated with numbers – the number of followers, likes, shares, or the speed of one’s ascent up the corporate ladder,” observes Sarah Johnson, a tech industry veteran. “While these metrics can be important indicators of visibility and recognition, they fail to capture the multifaceted nature of success. True success should encompass personal growth, fulfilment, and a sense of purpose.”
The tech-driven success narrative also tends to glorify entrepreneurship and start-up culture, portraying it as the epitome of achievement. While entrepreneurship is undoubtedly a valuable and innovative pursuit, not everyone is cut out for the demanding and unpredictable world of start-ups. The pressure to conform to this entrepreneurial ideal can marginalise those who find success in more traditional career paths or choose a different pace for their professional journey.
Quick success
The relentless pace of technological innovation has fostered a culture of impatience and instant gratification. “In the age of technology, success is often equated with speed – the faster you achieve your goals, the better,” says Dr Michael Brown, a technology ethicist. “This mindset overlooks the value of perseverance, learning from failures, and the time required to develop expertise in a given field. It is important to recognise that true success often requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to embrace the journey, rather than fixating solely on the destination.”
Education is not immune to the impact of unrealistic success standards. The prevailing narrative often equates success with prestigious degrees, high grades, and a linear path to a well-established career. However, this narrow definition ignores the diverse talents, skills, and passions that individuals possess.
The pressure to conform to a predetermined educational trajectory can stifle creativity, discourage exploration of alternative paths, and limit the potential for unconventional success stories.
Addressing the issue of unrealistic success standards requires a collective shift in mindset. Individuals must recognise the inherent value in diverse definitions of success and challenge the narrow benchmarks perpetuated by technology and social media.
Holistic view needed
Embracing a more holistic view of success involves acknowledging the importance of personal growth, well-being, and fulfilment alongside professional achievements.
Educational institutions play a crucial role in reshaping societal perceptions of success.
By fostering environments that encourage exploration, creativity, and individualised learning paths, educators can empower students to define success on their own terms. Emphasising the development of critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience can equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
The age of technology has undeniably brought about remarkable advancements and opportunities, but to create a more balanced and sustainable definition of success, society must celebrate diversity in achievements, prioritise well-being, and acknowledge the inherent value of personal growth and fulfilment.
Only by challenging and redefining these unrealistic standards can we pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate vision of success in the age of technology.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
