Human beings are social creatures, meaning that we benefit from company, camaraderie, and the general support of others. But living together in society also comes with downfalls, like “groupthink.”
That’s because, if enough people subscribe to a certain idea, it becomes accepted and viewed as “normal,” no matter how backward it might actually be. And since humans have been civilized for centuries, there’s no shortage of harmful yet still-expected habits in life.
Reddit user Kiyokoo recently polled women online about this phenomenon as well. They asked for examples of “glamorized” things in society that, at the end of the day, are actually just plain toxic. Brace yourself for this roundup, as it may leave you questioning all your own perspectives.
“Hustle Culture” and That Running Yourself Ragged at Work Is a Mark of Success
“Overworking. Basically, wearing burnout as some badge of honor. It’s not a flex that you’ve worked seven months straight with no day off or haven’t used any of your PTO in years. We’ve somehow managed to equate our worth to how much we’re willing to withstand at a job before we’ve reached our limit.” -TelephonePossible456
“Absolutely. My family has less money than most of my friends, but I have an actual relationship and happy memories with my parents. I know which I’d prefer. I’ve always seen these posts on social media by middle-aged guys who brag about working 80 hours a week, but lately, I’ve seen women do it, too. I get it if you don’t have a choice, but I’d much rather have a life over money that I don’t have time to spend, a big house I don’t have time to do anything but sleep in, and nice clothes I never get a chance to wear.” -EmmyBonbon
Appearing Young, to the Point Where Beauty Products Are Pushed on Us 24/7
“Youthfulness. It should be okay to look your age.” -55neon55
“100%. I started graying at 25 and kept being asked if I was going to dye my hair. I’d rather age naturally.” -AquasTonic
“Most beauty practices. Nails, hair, skin, makeup, clothes; it all saps so much productive energy out of women. Imagine how liberating it is not to care about this stuff beyond the necessary. It’s also sold as ‘self-care’ and not an additional layer of chores on top of everything we already have to deal with on a daily basis.” -Chuvashi
I couldn’t have said it better myself. I’ll take my simple, three-product skincare regimen over a 12-step routine any day.
Excess of Well, Everything, But Especially Alcohol
“This is one I just don’t get. Society has done a good job of collectively ignoring how dangerous alcohol can be, and going home to crack open a bottle of wine after a long day is seen as a normal stress-coping mechanism. But the line between ‘it’s fine, it’s just my one drink a day’ and ‘I need alcohol to get through the day’ is not as clear as people think. I’ve seen so many people die from alcohol-related means over the course of my career, and I’m not exaggerating when I say alcohol is the scariest and most dangerous drug to withdraw from. And yet society pushes it on young people as a rite of passage. It’s bananas.” –Twisterkat923
The Idea That a Man Will Complete Your Life, Not Individuality
“Being male-centered. I truly believe that long-lasting contentment and the ability to avoid a lot of unpleasant situations come from having a strong sense of self. Being totally and completely comfortable on your own is invaluable, in my opinion.” -Sufficient-Berry-827
“It’s troubling how many people jump from relationship to relationship.” -Small-Guarantee6972
Isn’t it ironic that perpetually single men are painted as “bachelors” while single women get made to feel like pariahs? How can we change that narrative?
Stardom, Even Though It’s Strange For Everyone Involved (Celebs Included)
“Fame. I find it downright creepy how we idolize people. We’re obsessed with what they wear, eat, do, and hang onto every word they say. The celebrities themselves are stalked, harassed, and exploited. But we all dream of feeling special. I feel like celebrity culture is a major reflection of capitalism and the romanticization of your personal life blending with your work.” -Chemtrailcrab
I’ve never wanted to be famous, and I stand by that. The thought of paparazzi following my every move is nightmare fuel enough.
Oh, And Toxic Relationships
“Romanticizing toxic relationships like they’re passionate or deep. They’re just draining.” -Princessxnaughty
“Normalizing and romanticizing jealousy and controlling behaviors in relationships.” -Efficient-Policy407
It’s true: a healthy relationship shouldn’t leave you walking on eggshells or flying from “highs” to “lows” every five minutes. Don’t mistake a power struggle for love, regardless of what society says.
You can view Kiyokoo’s post here.
