How Did We Get So Dumb? - Part 4

The elephant in the room - "The Tall Poppy Syndrome".

It seems increasingly that New Zealand doesn’t like tall poppies and cuts down people who stand out from the crowd and breach our societal egalitarian code of practices. So how can we support and encourage the next generation to dream big without fear of online bullying or failure? In Australia and New Zealand, "cutting down the tall poppy" is sometimes used by business entrepreneurs to describe those who deliberately criticise other people for their success and achievements. It has been described as being the by-product of the Australian and New Zealand cultural value of Egalitarianism.

Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS) can have significant effects on individuals and society. Here are some key impacts:

1. Psychological Toll – People who experience TPS often face self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts due to criticism and resentment directed at their success.

2. Loss of Talent – Some individuals may choose to leave their country or industry to escape the negativity, leading to a brain drain and loss of innovation.

3. Economic Impact – TPS can discourage entrepreneurship and ambition, ultimately affecting economic growth and productivity.

4. Social Division – It fosters a culture where success is viewed with suspicion or hostility, rather than encouragement and celebration.

5. Workplace Challenges – In professional settings, TPS can lead to resentment, reduced collaboration, and a lack of support for high achievers.

Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS) has had real-world consequences, particularly in countries like New Zealand and Australia. Here are some examples:

1. Entrepreneurs Facing Backlash – Research has shown that many New Zealand entrepreneurs experience TPS, with some facing criticism and negativity when they achieve success. This has led to self-doubt, anxiety, and even cases where individuals have left the country to escape the negativity.

2. Impact on Business Growth – Some entrepreneurs have reported that TPS discourages them from expanding their businesses or taking risks. Public attacks and resentment can make them hesitant to pursue ambitious goals.

3. Bullying in Sports – Studies have found that high-performing student athletes are often victims of bullying due to TPS. Their success makes them targets for resentment and negative behaviour.

4. Mental Health Struggles – TPS has been linked to depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts among those who experience it. A tragic case in New Zealand involved a young entrepreneur who died by suicide after facing TPS-related criticism.

5. Social Media Negativity – While TPS often occurs in face-to-face interactions, social media has amplified the issue. Successful individuals frequently receive negative comments from anonymous users, further reinforcing the syndrome.

Have you noticed TPS affecting people around you?