The Tall Poppy Syndrome
Why is it that the more successful you become, the better you get at doing what you do, the more people want to criticise you? It's a bizarre phenomenon that seems to be far more prevalent in Australia than in the US. In fact, in Australia, we have a name for it. It's called the Tall Poppy Syndrome. It assumes that if you achieve success - or even want to be noticed for something you're doing, then everyone else has a right to cut you down. To the extent that 'it's your own fault' for raising your head above the other flora. It doesn't matter how proud or good and right you are - the fact you have the audacity to stand tall must mean you deserve every bit of criticism you get! I've noted that Americans love success - in whatever arena, artistically, creatively, even in business. Doesn't matter - success is the pinnacle of the American Way. Not so in Australia. Success is treated with suspicion, even fear by the lo...