Tall Poppy Syndrome: A Cultural Phenomenon of Cutting Down Success

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS) is a pervasive social phenomenon where individuals excelling in their field are criticized, resented, or undermined. It breeds a toxic culture of mediocrity, suppressing ambition and discouraging success. Driven by jealousy, insecurity, and cultural conformity, TPS cripples confidence, deterring high achievers from reaching their full potential.

Victims experience isolation, anxiety, and self-doubt, fostering imposter syndrome. This silent epidemic stifles innovation, weakens leadership, and harms mental health. Overcoming TPS requires celebrating achievements, fostering supportive environments, and reshaping societal attitudes. Breaking free from this mindset unlocks progress, empowering individuals to rise beyond unwarranted criticism.

More messages from your neighbours

4 days ago

Poll: 🗑️ Would you be keen to switch to a fortnightly rubbish collection, or do you prefer things as they are?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Aucklanders, our weekly rubbish collections are staying after councillors voted to scrap a proposed trial of fortnightly pick-ups.

We want to hear from you: would you be keen to switch to a fortnightly rubbish collection, or do you prefer things as they are?

Keen for the details? Read up about the scrapped collection trial here.

🗑️ Would you be keen to switch to a fortnightly rubbish collection, or do you prefer things as they are?

82.5% Same!

82.5% Complete
17.5% Would have liked to try something different

17.5% Complete

332 votes

6 days ago

Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️‍💥❔

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What has a head but no brain?

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.