Tall Poppy Syndrome: Navigating the Energetics of Success
Have you agreed to a code of silence without consciously realizing?
In societies across the globe, the phenomenon of “tall poppies” frequently rears its head, manifesting as a cultural, social, collective and psychological dynamic that affects individuals who achieve notable success or recognition. Stemming from the ancient parable where the tallest poppies in a field are cut down to size, the term “tall poppy syndrome” encapsulates the tendency to criticize, resent, or seek to diminish those who have risen above their peers or family members often through achievements, talent, or success.
A fun fact is that my mother (Louise) is a brilliant caricaturist. Her work has been featured in newspapers and magazine and she even won the 1994 Australian gift award for creating something called Tall Poppy Targets. It was a dartboard calendar that featured pretty crude caricatures of famous people. The calendar came with a dart (this feels pretty obscure as I’m sharing this 😂) and the calendar images were the dartboard with a cork backing.
This novelty product was a wild hit because the consumers could unleash their envy, judgement, and assumptions.
Psychological Underpinnings & Energetic Consequences
Historically, the concept of tall poppies can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as Rome, where (apparently) the last king of Rome, suggested controlling potential threats by metaphorically “cutting off the heads of the tallest poppies.” This allegory has since permeated various cultures, each adapting the notion to reflect its unique societal values and norms. In contemporary times, Tall Poppy Syndrome is most prominently observed in countries like Australia (where I grew up), New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, where societal ethos often emphasizes humility, egalitarianism, and the collective over individual achievement. This has merits of course, but on an energetic level it screams suppression of sovereignty.
At its core, the tall poppy syndrome is deeply rooted in human psychology and bitchiness in general. It intersects with feelings of envy, insecurity, and a sense of fairness.
Psychologists argue that witnessing another’s success can trigger a comparative reflex, leading individuals to measure their own achievements against those of others. This comparison can foster feelings of inadequacy or jealousy, prompting actions aimed at “leveling the playing field.”
However, from a metaphysical standpoint one could argue that if you are unable to support and celebrate the success of others then you are keeping that energy from manifesting into your own life. You attract what you focus on.
If you can feel genuine happiness and success for someone else then you literally crack the code to unlocking new layers of success in your own life.
The simple and oh-so-harsh truth is that society today is not founded on energetic awareness. Instead, it prompts division instead of unity. This divisive energy is super sneaky and can corrode your innate powers to create with intention.
By understanding its roots and manifestations, we can better navigate the delicate balance between celebrating success and maintaining collective harmony.
If you want to dive deeper into honoring yourself and your success path then please join me for my FREE Masterclass called The Hidden Element on Tuesday March 5th @ 7:30pm EST. And yes, there will be a replay if you can’t attend live.
Wishing you massive success in every area of your life.
Sarah Prout.
