Within the self-improvement space, we often refer to the idea that society tells us this, that, or something else. For example, society tells us that we “need” to get a good education to be successful.
The list goes on…
I’m as guilty of this as anyone. Especially in my early content creation days and when I first started entering the world of self-improvement.
Questioning “Society Tells Us…”
Most recently, I’ve started to question this idea. Not because it isn’t true; in fact, I’ve often felt this societal pressure, which can run deep for many. (It’s closely tied to the fact that, ultimately, you can’t control how others perceive you, yet we so often let their expectations shape us anyway.)
Who Do We Actually Mean by “Society”?
I’ve started to question this idea because when “we” refer to “society”, who are we actually referring to?
Aren’t “we” part of society?
Don’t “we” make up society, and therefore, aren’t we part of the problem?
When I refer to “we”, I mean all of us, including those in the self-improvement space, whether a coach, thought leader, or personality.
Social Conditioning Is Real, And So Are We
As hinted, that’s not to say social conditioning or societal pressure doesn’t exist.
It’s a very big thing that impacts us all, both consciously and unconsciously! Many times we don’t even recognise it unless we purposely start to ask the question, and that’s the role of conscious personal growth and self-discovery. This is exactly what sociologists mean by the social construction of reality: society isn’t some fixed thing “out there”; it’s created and re-created by all of us, through our shared beliefs and everyday interactions.
It’s Time to Change the Narrative
I just wonder who “we” are referring to as “society”, and whether we are part of it. And if we are, then isn’t it about time we started to change the narrative, rather than thinking, or even believing, that society is somehow outside of ourselves? It might start with something as personal as rethinking what we’ve been told we “need” to be successful.
Key Takeaways on Redefining Your Relationship with Society
- Question assumptions: Question the external pressures you feel regarding success instead of blindly following traditional paths.
- Recognise your role: Realise that you contribute to collective culture every day, meaning you share responsibility for its norms.
- Unpack cultural conditioning: Examine hidden expectations that influence your daily choices through conscious reflection and self-discovery.
- Shift the narrative: Change starts from within when you adjust personal definitions of success.
FAQs for Aren’t We the Society We Keep Complaining About?
What does it mean to be part of society?
It means your daily choices, beliefs, and conversations actively shape the surrounding culture. You are not separate from the environment you comment on.
How does social conditioning affect your decisions?
Social conditioning works quietly in the background. It shapes your views on career, achievement, and lifestyle choices until you consciously step back and question those standards.
How can you start changing societal standards?
You change standards by changing your own behaviour first. When you redefine what personal success looks like for yourself, you influence people around you to do the same.
Why should you question traditional views of success?
Traditional views often force you into expectations that do not align with your true values. Questioning these views creates room for genuine conscious living.
Can individual actions really alter collective mindsets?
Yes. Collective mindsets consist entirely of individual actions. Small personal changes in mindset create ripple effects across your immediate social circles.
