THE PRESSURE TO LOOK SUCCESSFUL

In Pakistani Society

A Social Reflection | 2nd Year Research

“We buy things we don't need, with money we don't have, to impress people we don't like.”

In today's world, being successful is not enough; it is more important to look successful. In Pakistani society, this pressure is increasing day by day, especially among the youth. We are living in a society where people judge you by your clothes, your mobile phone, your car, and your lifestyle, not by your character or hard work.

What Does “Looking Successful” Mean?

Looking successful means showing that you are rich, modern, and happy, even if you are not. For example, a student may have a very expensive iPhone but have no money to pay his university fee. A family may arrange a very big wedding function by taking a loan, just to show people that they are rich. This is the pressure to look successful.

Main Reasons for This Pressure

There are many reasons for this pressure in our society.

1. Social Media

This is the biggest reason. On Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, everyone shows a perfect life. People post pictures from expensive restaurants, in branded clothes, and from foreign countries. When we see these posts, we feel that our own life is boring and unsuccessful. So we try to copy them.

2. Family and Relatives (“Log Kya Kahenge”)

In Pakistan, the sentence “Log kya kahenge” is very powerful. Parents often compare their children to others: “Ali sahab ke bete ko dekho” or “Tumhari cousin ne to achi job le li.” This comparison creates a lot of pressure. Children start to believe that they must show off to get respect.

3. Materialism

Our society now measures success only with money. A government officer with a simple lifestyle is considered less successful than a businessman who shows his wealth, even if that wealth is not halal. We have forgotten that a good teacher, a kind doctor, or an honest person is also successful.

Effects of This Pressure

This pressure has very serious effects.

1. Mental stress and anxiety: Young people may feel overwhelmed or discouraged because they cannot meet unrealistic standards.

2. Financial problems: People spend more than they earn. They buy things on installments just to show off. Many families face debt because of this show-off culture.

3. Dishonesty: When a person wants to look rich quickly, they may choose wrong ways, such as corruption or fraud.

Conclusion

In my opinion, we need to change our definition of success. Real success is not about showing branded clothes or expensive cars. Real success is peace of mind, good character, good education, and helping others. We should stop living only for society's approval and start living according to our values. As a familiar saying reminds us, “Do not compare your real life with someone else's highlight reel on social media.”

Parents and teachers should teach young people that a simple and honest life is much better than a fake and showy life.

Written by bin-e-Hameed ♡

15th April 2026