IMO: Issue #19 - Peer Pressure: Friend or Foe?

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Peer Pressure - It’s complicated…

Ever heard the saying "Suno sabki, karo manki" (Hindi for "Listen to everyone, but do what your heart desires")? This age-old wisdom perfectly captures the essence of dealing with peer pressure.

Let's face it, we've all been there. You're scrolling through Instagram on a Friday night, and BAM! Your entire friends group is posting stories from the hottest new bar with a caption like "Squad goals! #TGIF." Suddenly, that cozy night-in with Netflix feels a little...meh.

This, my friends, is peer pressure in action. But before you ditch your PJs and head out, let's dissect this social phenomenon.

Peer pressure isn't some evil monster lurking in the comments section. It's simply the influence our peers have on our choices. Think of it as your brain's built-in "social radar," constantly scanning the group to see what's cool, what's not, and where you fit in.

The Upside of the Influence:

Peer pressure can actually be a good thing! It can motivate us to try new things, like that killer swimming session your bestie keeps raving about (hey, endorphins are a thing!). It can also push us to be better versions of ourselves. Remember that time your coworker's healthy meal prep pics inspired you to ditch the pizza? Or you suggesting your friend to subscribe this newsletter 😜😜, peer pressure gets a gold star for that one. 💫 

The Downside of the Influence:

But here's the catch, that social radar can sometimes malfunction. Just like that time your friend convinced your skinny jeans was a good idea (we all have fashion regrets), peer pressure can lead us to down paths - we might not have chosen on our own. Think skipping the gym because your squad wants to binge-watch reality TV, or feeling pressured to like that questionable outfit picture just to avoid judgment.

How to Get the Best Out of Peer Pressure:

So, how do we turn this social influence into a superpower? Here's the secret: be strategic!

• Find Your Power Posse: Ever heard the saying "you are the average of the 5 people you interact with the most"? There's truth to that. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you in a good way, and share your values. These are the friends who will nudge you towards that healthy meal prep or that new business idea, not the next questionable fashion trend.

• Become the Hype Human: We all have those friends who could motivate a sloth to run a marathon. Be that friend! Did your coworker mention wanting to learn a new language? Find a cool app and suggest tackling it together. Iron sharpens iron, remember?

• Be a Filter, Not a Sponge: Not all influences need to be implemented. Learn to filter out the pressure that doesn't align with your goals. Your bestie might be obsessed with the latest fad diet, but if it doesn't fit your lifestyle, politely decline and suggest a fun hike instead.

So, Where's the Line?

The key is knowing your limits. Don't let your Instagram feed dictate your happiness. If that bar crawl sounds like a recipe for FOMO (fear of missing out), but staying in feels like the self-care you crave, then stay in! Your authentic self (and your liver) will thank you 😇😇

How to Be the Captain of Your Own Influence Ship:

1. Be Comfortable Saying No: It's a superpower, seriously!! A simple "thanks, but not this time" can go a long way.

2. Know Your Values: What's important to you? Fitness, creativity, a good night's sleep? Prioritise activities that align with your goals.

3. Find Your Crew: Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not drag you down. Real friends support your choices, even if they don't always agree with them.

Remember: Your social media feed might portray a picture-perfect version of your friends' lives, but it doesn't tell the whole story. Trust your gut, do what feels right for you, and you'll be living your best life, likes or no likes.

P.S. Don't forget to share this newsletter with your fellow folks! The more the merrier, right?

Until next time; Keep Learning, Keep Sharing!!