Beyond the Joneses: Combating Social Comparison Anxiety in Indian Society
Amrita Menon
May 20 , 2024
Beyond the Joneses: Combating Social Comparison Anxiety in Indian Society
In India, where culture runs deep in traditions, the phrase “keeping up with the Joneses” takes on a whole different meaning. Unlike Western societies, where the importance is often on material possessions and status symbols, the social comparison anxiety in India revolves more around familial expectations, societal pressure, and the infamous "Sharma ji ka beta" comparison.
This as we know stems from the collectivist culture where an individual's identity does not just represent themselves but is also tied to their family and community. This results in the pressure to conform to the expectations of others making it overwhelming and feeling inadequate.
Causes of Social Comparison Anxiety in India
Familial Expectations: In most Indian families, high academic, career, and marriage expectations are placed on children. Anyone who is unable to reach these expectations is prone to judgement and comparison with others in their society, further developing social comparison anxiety.
Societal Expectations: Indian society is rooted in a culture where external validation from elders and authoritative figures is given a lot of emphasis. This creates pressure to conform to traditional beliefs and stigmas that may not align with modern perspectives, and this fear of disapproval can lead to anxiety.
Combating the Social Comparison Anxiety Symptoms:
Get ready to challenge your opponent: Well your opponent is not any powerful warrior with a sword rather it is your own thoughts. Identify each time you engage in negative self-talk and unrealistic expectations. Challenge these thoughts and expectations. Bring your focus back to your own strengths and accomplishments.
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Set Realistic Goals: Often we engage in a loop of setting unrealistic goals for ourselves through comparison with others. We are all on different journeys and so our destinations ought to differ as well. Practice setting realistic goals and focus on your progress.
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Polish your weapon: By weapon I do not mean anything sharp or dangerous, in the war with anxiety, your weapon is self compassion. Acknowledge your unique journey and remember to be kind and understanding towards yourself.
Seek Support: Mental health may still be a stigma in many families. However, it is important to reach out to be someone when you are battling with your negative thoughts. Talk to a friend or relative or therapist about your feelings and experiences.
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Cut ties with social media: Limiting time on social media especially if it brings up feelings of inadequacy can prove to be beneficial.
Redefine what success means to you: Success does not always have to mean wealth and academic achievements. Define success based on your values and aspirations.
Social comparison anxiety is very common, but it can be overcome with self-awareness, acceptance, and cultivating a positive mindset. By challenging these thoughts of insecurity and expectations, one can break this cycle of social comparison and find fulfilment.
We at Heart It Out also provide a safe space for you to deal with an anxiety disorder. While the external symptoms can be tackled using these techniques, there is also some underlying issue behind social comparison anxiety that needs to be addressed.
Our team of experts can help you cope with this distress and the symptoms of an anxiety attack with better support and guidance. Connect with us to find out more!
Take care and Heart It Out with us! ❤️
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