Stop pedestaling others
Photography by Danielle Ann Rose @bydanielleannrose
It can be so easy to fall into the trap of pedestaling others. Whether it's a famous person, an influencer, a close friend, a mentor or even your boss, we often place these individuals on a pedestal, viewing them as ideals of perfection. However, this mindset can lead to disappointment and disillusionment when they inevitably make decisions or say things we disagree with. Remembering that everyone is human and prone to flaws, mistakes, and missteps is essential
Social media platforms are curated highlight reels, showing mostly just the best moments of people's lives. When we constantly consume these idealized portrayals, we can believe these individuals lead perfect lives, free of error and hard times. This illusion of perfection is unrealistic and harmful to our mental and emotional well-being. We begin to compare ourselves unfavourably to these idealized versions of others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem
It's crucial to understand that everyone, regardless of their status or achievements, is human. They experience the same range of emotions, make mistakes, and face challenges just like anyone else. Acknowledging this human fallibility helps us cultivate a more balanced and compassionate perspective. When we accept that no one is perfect, we can appreciate their strengths and achievements without expecting them to be flawless, expecting them to be someone or something they’re not
When we place others on a pedestal, we set ourselves up for disappointment. Inevitably, the person we idolize will do something that doesn't align with our expectations or beliefs. This can lead to feelings of betrayal and disillusionment. By recognizing that everyone is capable of making mistakes, we can manage our expectations and reduce the impact of these disappointments
Instead of pedestaling others, let's focus on embracing authenticity. Celebrate the real, unfiltered versions of people, with all their imperfections and quirks. Authenticity fosters genuine connections and allows us to relate to others on a deeper level. When we see people for who they truly are, we can appreciate their humanity and build more meaningful relationships
Here are a few practical steps to stop pedestaling others:
Practice Self-Awareness. Reflect on why you pedestal certain individuals. Are you seeking validation, inspiration, or a role model? Understanding your motivations can help you develop healthier perspectives
Cultivate Empathy. Put yourself in others' shoes and recognize their struggles and challenges. Empathy helps us see beyond the facade of perfection and appreciate the complexity of being human
Set Realistic Expectations. Acknowledge that everyone will make mistakes and have moments of weakness. Adjust your expectations accordingly to avoid unnecessary disappointment
Seek Balance. While it's okay to admire someone's achievements, balance this admiration with an understanding of their humanity. Celebrate their successes without ignoring their flaws
Focus on Personal Growth. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own growth and self-improvement. Celebrate your achievements and progress without feeling overshadowed by others' successes
Pedestaling others is a common but misguided practice that often leads to disappointment and disillusionment. By recognizing that everyone is human and prone to imperfections, we can cultivate a more balanced and compassionate perspective. Embracing authenticity and setting realistic expectations allows us to build genuine connections and appreciate the true essence of those around us. It’s time to stop pedestaling others and start embracing the imperfections of humanity
