The Unbearable Pressures of the Peer Perfect Life

Yawar Iqbal examines the hidden anxieties behind the social media screen.

In today's world, social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok have become showcases of perfection, presenting an image of success and achievement. From Gen Z's impressive list of accomplishments to the constant display of entrepreneurial ventures, it seems like the younger generation is on an unstoppable path to greatness. They are portrayed as the creators, the innovators, the ones who have broken free from the shackles of traditional nine-to-five jobs. They’ve become the darlings of the job market, sought after by companies and brands looking to tap into their brilliance and energy. Every corporate boardroom has its eyes on these brilliant minds, and the world seems to be at their feet.

However, beneath this glossy exterior of achievement, there’s a darker side to this generation's experience. The pressures of perfectionism and the constant comparison to others have led to rising mental health struggles among Gen Z. A recent study by the Harvard Medical Journal revealed that Gen Z is twice as likely to suffer from anxiety and depression compared to the previous generation. These figures are sobering, and they highlight an urgent issue that needs addressing.

According to an article by The Guardian, one in three young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 report experiencing mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety disorders, which is a significant increase compared to just one in four in 2000. This stark difference suggests that something has shifted in the way young people approach success and their mental well-being in the age of social media.

In the past, struggles like failure, setbacks, and personal struggles were more hidden in the public eye. But in the age of social media, failure is hardly ever visible. Instead, users are constantly bombarded with success stories: "20 Under 20" lists, "30 Under 30" honorees, and posts celebrating promotions and entrepreneurship. Social media has become a wall of fame for overachievers, where everyone is constantly winning. But what happens when a young person slips, stumbles, or faces failure – a normal part of life? Unfortunately, in today’s digital world, failure is often perceived as a personal flaw rather than a natural part of growth and learning.

Platforms like LinkedIn, which was once designed to connect professionals and celebrate their achievements, have now become spaces where the hustle culture thrives. On these platforms, users are encouraged to constantly strive for more—faster, bigger, better. Motivation is no longer about balance, but about maximizing productivity and success. The language around work has shifted towards overachievement and constant hustle, erasing any space for acknowledging setbacks. But when reality strikes—when the hustle culture fails to deliver—the result can be damaging. When people inevitably fail or fall short, the crushing pressure of living up to an unrealistic standard can lead to severe emotional distress.

It is essential to recognize that the culture of "winning at all costs" can be damaging. Mental health experts have long stressed the importance of addressing failure as part of the journey to success. Just as athletes and celebrities rely on therapists to deal with their setbacks, young people need space to process their failures and learn from them without feeling like they are failures as people.

Furthermore, the portrayal of Gen Z in marketing and branding often fails to reflect their true struggles. Brands that target young people often present an image of the "ideal Gen Z lifestyle"—successful entrepreneurs, tech-savvy consumers, partygoers, and adrenaline seekers—all without a trace of vulnerability. There's no acknowledgment of the mental health challenges that many young people face today. By failing to include this aspect of their experience, these brands inadvertently contribute to the perpetuation of unrealistic expectations.

This issue becomes particularly critical when considering the alarming rise in suicide rates among young adults. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, Pakistan alone reported 8.9 suicides per 100,000 people in 2019, with a tragic loss of life averaging nearly 15 to 35 people every day. In a world where failure is seen as a personal catastrophe, it’s no surprise that some feel the only way out of their emotional pain is through extreme measures.

Additionally, the unrealistic expectations placed on Gen Z by employers further compound the problem. Many companies seek a perfect blend of fresh perspectives and extensive experience, a combination that’s almost impossible to achieve simultaneously. Experience comes with time, and with time comes the learning process of handling failure, rejection, and setbacks. But in today’s corporate world, companies often expect instant results, contributing to a cycle of burnout and dissatisfaction among young employees.

Young people entering the workforce also struggle with navigating traditional corporate environments, as many Gen Z individuals prefer launching their own startups rather than working for established organizations. These young innovators bring fresh ideas but often lack the emotional resilience that comes from years of experience. Without proper guidance or mentorship, they can easily become disillusioned when faced with setbacks, leading to an increase in workplace stress and dissatisfaction.

So, what can be done? Brands, organizations, and society at large must take a more empathetic approach to understanding Gen Z’s needs. Instead of glorifying hustle culture and success without context, it’s time to acknowledge the realities that this generation faces. By normalizing failure, providing mental health resources, and promoting a balanced approach to work and life, we can help this generation navigate their journey with resilience and strength. Companies that understand this will not only build stronger connections with Gen Z but will also contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.

As the world continues to change, one thing is clear: success is not just about winning; it's about learning to navigate both the highs and lows of life. It’s time to offer Gen Z the support they need to thrive in all aspects of their lives.