How 'tall poppy syndrome' can hinder career development

There are many reasons why you may never fulfil your career potential and find work you love. One such factor could be tall poppy syndrome. This is when people of high status are resented, envied and criticised for being successful.

Perhaps this is something to do with our modern culture, where success, however you define it, can have negative connotations. The celebration of success may be seen as arrogant or self-indulgent. Therefore, we want to bring successful people back down to earth, even if it’s only in our mind.

So how does this impact your own career journey?

Well, if you yourself are allowed to climb the ladder of success, you may baulk at the idea because you don’t want to be perceived as being the aforementioned poppy. The thought of fostering the envy of your peers may be enough to keep you in your comfort zone, and this is one reason why many people fear success.

Now, if this sounds like you, it’s not for me to slap you on the wrist and tell you to change your ways. However, I would like to ask you the following questions:

Questions to help you challenge tall poppy syndrome

1. Do you recognise tall poppy syndrome in yourself?
2. Where do you think this tendency or cultural belief came from?
3. How old is the evidence of this tendency?
4. If it came from an individual, where did they get it from?
5. If you banished tall poppy syndrome from your psyche, what is the worst thing that would happen?
6. What are the odds of this worst thing happening?
7. How much is the adherence to this belief impacting you on a daily basis?
8. If the belief is limiting you in some way, what new belief will help you move forward rather than hinder you?

The more unique, empowering and evidence-based your new belief is, the more effective it will be. But changing long-held beliefs takes time and regular practice. Eventually, your thoughts and beliefs will be reflected in your actions. And who knows where that may take your career?