#BalanceInAdmiration

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The Pitfalls of Putting People on Pedestals: A Loss of Personal Power Shaina Tranquilino June 8, 2024

In our society, we often idolize certain individuals, whether they are celebrities, leaders, or even loved ones. We place them on pedestals, elevating them to a status above ourselves. While admiration and respect are natural human emotions, there's a fine line between appreciation and pedestalizing someone. What may seem like harmless admiration can sometimes lead to a significant loss of personal power and agency.

Putting people on pedestals can manifest in various ways, from idolizing celebrities to idealizing romantic partners or even overly glorifying authority figures. While it might initially feel uplifting to hold someone in such high esteem, the consequences can be detrimental to our own well-being and relationships.

One of the primary drawbacks of placing someone on a pedestal is the relinquishment of personal power. When we elevate someone else, we inherently diminish ourselves. We may start to believe that their opinions, desires, or actions hold more weight than our own. This can lead to a sense of inadequacy and a loss of confidence in our own abilities and decisions.

Furthermore, pedestals are precarious places to be. Those we idolize are human, just like us, with flaws, imperfections, and vulnerabilities. When we place them on a pedestal, we often overlook or downplay these aspects of their humanity. We may ignore red flags or dismiss problematic behavior, excusing it in the name of admiration.

Moreover, pedestals create an unhealthy power dynamic in relationships. The pedestalized individual may feel pressured to live up to unrealistic expectations, leading to stress and anxiety. Meanwhile, the person doing the pedestalizing may become overly dependent on the validation and approval of the idolized figure, sacrificing their own autonomy and sense of self in the process.

Putting people on pedestals can also hinder genuine connection and intimacy. When we idealize someone, we fail to see them as they truly are, flaws and all. This can prevent authentic communication and vulnerability, essential components of healthy relationships.

So, how can we avoid falling into the trap of pedestalizing others? It starts with recognizing our own worth and value independent of external influences. Building self-esteem and cultivating a strong sense of self allows us to interact with others as equals, rather than placing them on a pedestal above us.

Additionally, it's essential to acknowledge the humanity of those we admire. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. Embracing the full complexity of individuals allows for more genuine and meaningful connections.

Finally, strive for balance in relationships. Instead of idealizing or idolizing someone, aim for mutual respect, understanding, and support. Healthy relationships are built on equality and reciprocity, not pedestals.

While it's natural to admire and respect others, putting people on pedestals can have significant consequences for our personal power and well-being. By recognizing our own worth, acknowledging the humanity of others, and fostering balanced relationships, we can avoid the pitfalls of pedestalization and cultivate healthier connections in our lives.