417. The pressure to be extraordinary in our 20s

In our 20s, we can feel intense pressure to be extraordinary, to stand head and shoulders above the pack, to thrive across all aspects of our life. But when we put pressure on ourselves to be extraordinary, we can fall victim to social comparison, lose sight of what we really want, and experience long-term feelings of inadequacy. In this episode, unpack where the pressure to be extraordinary comes from, and reframe our thinking towards a healthier, more balanced approach.

We explore: 
• How social media creates an ‘artificial average’, making us feel inadequate 
• Why being gifted as a child can lead to burnout as an adult 
• The myth of linear success, and why taking a scenic route is just as worthy 
• Why learned helplessness can make us stop trying at all 
• How we can expand our definition of being ‘extraordinary’ into many areas
• Why our relationships, not our work achievements, are the biggest predictor of long-term happiness

Watch on Netflix: HERE

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Our favourite sources: 

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2020/nov/05/under-pressure-why-athletes-choke

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KkKuTCFvzI

https://paulasanderson.com/2020/12/04/30-under-30-and-the-pressure-to-be-extraordinary/

The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.

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