Tall Poppy Syndrome: A Cultural Phenomenon of Cutting Down Success
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.
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
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41.1% Yes
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32.7% Maybe?
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26.1% No
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
How many balls of string does it take to reach the moon?
(Peter from Carterton kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Peter!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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73% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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15.9% Hmm, maybe?
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11.1% Yes!
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