Tall poppy syndrome actually has a higher negative effect on women. Why is this?

Tall Poppy Syndrome is a social phenomenon in which people who achieve success, stand out, or break social norms are criticized, belittled, or resented by others. The term "tall poppy" refers to a flower that grows above the rest and is therefore cut down to maintain uniformity—a metaphor for society's tendency to bring down those who excel or break boundaries. This syndrome affects people across various fields but is often intensified by factors like race, gender, and background. For instance, people who are not caucasian males frequently experience an added layer of scrutiny and criticism due to biases and stereotypes, making their achievements even more vulnerable to resentment. As a result, these individuals may face harsher treatment, be undermined in their roles, or be excluded from networks due to their “tall poppy” status.

The roots of Tall Poppy Syndrome are deeply embedded in cultural norms and social structures that discourage individuals from standing out. In societies where modesty and humility are valued, anyone who appears ambitious or visibly successful may be perceived as arrogant, disrupting the social fabric. Furthermore, bias plays a significant role—women who achieve high levels of success are sometimes seen as overstepping societal expectations, challenging established norms. For instance, a woman in a leadership role might be more readily criticized than her male counterparts, while a person in a similar position may face stereotyping and doubts about their competence based on race. Social media exacerbates this dynamic, where visible success and lifestyle milestones often spark envy, resentment, or judgments from a wider audience, increasing the reach and intensity of Tall Poppy Syndrome.

Here is what tall poppy syndrome can silently do

Tall Poppy Syndrome can affect people in a bunch of ways, from personal well-being to career growth and social relationships. For one, being constantly criticized or downplayed can hit a person’s confidence. When people feel they have to downplay their own success or hide their talents, it can lead to self-doubt, stress, and even anxiety, especially if they’re in an environment where others don’t support their achievements. Over time, this can make people stop aiming high or taking risks altogether, stalling their progress in work or in personal goals just to avoid standing out and facing backlash.

On the social side, Tall Poppy Syndrome can really mess with relationships. Friends, family, or coworkers may feel threatened or jealous, leading them to distance themselves, gossip, or even sabotage. This can create a sense of loneliness, as people might find it hard to connect or celebrate their wins openly. For some, it’s hard to find genuine support, and they end up being cautious about who they share their successes with. For non-caucasian males the effects can be even stronger, as they may already be navigating bias or stereotypes, making it all the more difficult to feel accepted in spaces where they’ve excelled.

In workplaces, Tall Poppy Syndrome can directly block people from advancing. High-achievers may be passed over for promotions, excluded from big projects, or overlooked for leadership roles if others see them as “too much” or a threat. This can lead to career stagnation or force people to seek out new jobs or industries where they feel their accomplishments won’t be held against them. And it can be exhausting—constantly feeling the need to stay humble, downplay successes, or avoid standing out can drain people’s energy and motivation.

It is important to understand and recognize tall poppy syndrome so you can deal with it quickly, and peacefully. Here are some quick tips; 

To cope with Tall Poppy Syndrome, it’s helpful for those affected to remember that the criticisms they face often say more about the insecurities of others than about their own worth. Additionally, having relationships, communities and networks that foster inclusivity and encourage high achievement can offer valuable support. Creating boundaries around one’s achievements, and recognizing when to share and when to keep things private can also help in dealing with negativity or judgement. For those in leadership roles, taking a balanced approach that combines confidence with humility can be effective in maintaining respect without falling prey to others’ insecurities.