Knowing The Definition Of Main Character Syndrome And How To Respond To It

Illustration of Main Character Syndrome (Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels)

JAKARTA - In the era of all-connected social media, many unconscious people began to position themselves as the main characters in their own life stories. Each moment feels like a scene in a film, every decision seems to be observed by the AUDIENCE', and the world seems to be spinning around themselves. This phenomenon is known as the Main Character Syndrome or the syndrome of the main character of a popular term that describes a person's tendency to view himself as the center of everything. Although called syndrom, this term is not an official medical diagnosis, but rather a reflection of the way you view and display yourself in a world full of spotlight.

Basically, main character syndrome arises when a person feels that his life deserves to be a spectacle and everyone around him is just a supporting actor. This mindset can be seen from striking behavior, excessive need for attention, to the habit of assessing all situations based on how it affects him. For some people, it also appears from the tendency to seek validation through social media. From posts that are polished perfectly to search for like' as a measure of self-meaning. In extreme form, this syndrome can obscure empathy and make a person forget that others have their own stories, struggles, and life highlights.

However, not all forms of becoming the main character' are negative. The positive side arises when a person uses that awareness to take control of his life such as setting goals, fighting for personal values, and not afraid to be the best version of him. Considering yourself as the main character can help you dare to make decisions, love yourself, and refuse to be an extra in other people's stories. New problems arise when the desire to be the center of attention changes to the need to always be the most important. That's when the balance between self-confidence and empathy begins to be disturbed.

To respond to this phenomenon in a healthy manner, experts suggest that you learn to raise self-awareness and empathy simultaneously. Asking yourself whether our actions reflect true identity or just an impetus to appear in front of a camera'? can help assess the authenticity of your motivation. Giving space to other people's stories is also important, as everyone has the right to be the main character in their own life. In addition, reducing social media exposure can help you get out of the pressure to always look "perfect" and return to enjoying real life without the demands to always be in the spotlight.

Considering yourself as a protagonist is not wrong, as long as you still realize that life is not just about one role. This world consists of many stories that intersect with each other, and everyone has their own stage. Being a main character that is true means being able to live life with authenticity, confidence, and awareness, without forgetting that the most beautiful story is often created when we share light with others.