Odd One Out

By Abi Fernando

September 30, 2021

Feeling inadequate shatters our hearts like a shard of crystal.

Questions like, "Why cannot we be enough?" are difficult to overcome when we are doubting our own abilities. Are we the ones who cause this state of mind to exist? If this is not the case, then who is pressuring us to think and act in this manner?

The influence imposed by peers over one another is referred to as peer pressure. It occurs when a person is persuaded or influenced into doing something good or harmful by their pals. Peer pressure is acting the same way as others in the same group to gain acceptance or respect.

Peer pressure can be both beneficial and detrimental. Either positive and negative consequences are possible. Positive peer pressure arises when you are encouraged to do something you were too afraid to pursue, or you did not think it would turn out good, that turned out excellent. Peer pressure is typically considered a negative behavior. Many people exert an influence or compel others to behave in a way that makes them uncomfortable. When people constantly deal with negative peer pressure, their behavior tends to go down the wrong and destructive path.

Peer pressure is more damaging than helpful in the long run. Peer pressure can be immensely detrimental because it can push the ignorant to behave irresponsibly. In addition, individuals may be influenced by negative peer pressure to steer them down a dark track.

5 Negative Effects of Peer Pressure in an Individual

1. Low self-esteem

Focusing too much on imitating others and neglecting to establish your originality will result in low self-esteem, interfering with your personality.

You are unique and special in your own way. You do not have to win the approval of everyone in your life. Just do you!

2. Depression and anxiety

If you are part of a group of peers pushing your friends and colleagues to do activities they would rather avoid, they will likely feel confused and nervous. The tremendous tension that often follows societal pressure occurs because of the many possible harmful effects that can appear after it.

Depression and anxiety is a serious matter. Make sure you're not the one who brings such problems upon others. Instead, do you part in taking a stand for those who are oppressed.

3. Distraction from school/work

To some point, peer pressure usually distracts your attention from your aims since you take actions you would not typically take. You lose focus on your goals because of thoughts that are arising from your peers.

You need to be aware of what is most important to you. It is not right to be with someone who leads you down the wrong path in life. You need to be in the company of someone who helps you progress and grow.

4. Behavioral Issues

You may end up just acting and looking like someone else if you try to live up to your peers' standards. A constant demand to behave in a certain way rather than your principles may drive you to doubt your personality, which may force you to question your actions.

Never alter your personality for the sake of satisfying the demands of others. You are who you are. You are amazing, great, and exceptional!

5. Huge amount of stress

Pressure from peers often causes anxiety and tension due to the numerous obligations you are required to perform. An individual who believes they are not good enough will suffer from excessive overthinking and pressure.

Keep in mind that you are enough. Being yourself is sufficient; you have nothing to prove to anyone else.

While peer pressure cannot be ignored, you can prepare to deal with it. Avoiding peer pressure involves:

Nurturing a positive social group
Knowing how to refuse
Exploring alternatives
Taking a stand

Develop the ability to deal with peer pressure sensibly since this will assist you in experiencing life. As Dr. Seuss writes, "Why fit in when you are born to stand out," you were born to fulfill your individual growth and not live up to others' expectations of you.

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