Penyakit 'Terpaling'

In today’s world of social media, the pressure to be the best at everything can lead to an unhealthy phenomenon I call “penyakit terpaling.” From being the terpaling (most) successful, the terpaling happy, to the terpaling perfect, this mindset can harm our mental health, relationships, and sense of self-worth. 

Let’s dive into what this “disease” really is and how we can heal from it.

What is Penyakit Terpaling?

The term “terpaling” means “the most” or “the best” at something. The mindset of penyakit terpaling can be described as:

• Constantly competing to be seen as the best in every aspect of life.
• Comparing yourself with others, especially on social media.
• Feeling pressure to portray a perfect image online, whether in career, parenting, beauty, or lifestyle.

For example:

• The terpaling successful mom who seems to juggle career, kids, and a spotless home effortlessly.
• The terpaling fashionable person who is always wearing the latest trends.
• The terpaling adventurous traveler who constantly posts about exotic trips.

Signs You Might Have Penyakit Terpaling

1. You Compare Constantly: You measure your life, success, or happiness against others.
2. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): You feel anxious if you’re not keeping up with what others are doing.
3. Pressure to Show Perfection: You only share the highlights of your life online.
4. Validation from Likes & Comments: Your self-worth depends on how others react to your posts.
5. Burnout or Exhaustion: You try too hard to meet unrealistic standards and feel drained.

Why Penyakit Terpaling is Harmful

1. Mental Health Strain:
   The constant need to be the best can lead to anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy.

2. Lack of Authenticity:
   You might lose your true self by focusing too much on how others perceive you.

3. Damaged Relationships:
   Competing with others can create jealousy and misunderstandings, even among friends and family.

4. Never Feeling Satisfied:
   No matter how much you achieve, it never feels enough because someone is always doing more.

How to Heal from Penyakit Terpaling

1. Practice Self-Awareness

• Recognize when you’re falling into the comparison trap.
• Ask yourself: “Why do I feel the need to be the best?”

2. Limit Social Media Exposure

• Take breaks from social media if it triggers negative feelings.
• Follow accounts that inspire and uplift, not those that pressure you.

3. Celebrate Your Unique Journey

• Everyone’s path is different. Focus on your own progress, not someone else’s.
• Celebrate small wins and personal growth.

4. Embrace Imperfection

• It’s okay to be “enough” rather than “the best.”
• Authenticity and being real are more valuable than perfection.

5. Seek Genuine Connections

• Spend time with people who love and accept you for who you are.
• Support each other’s achievements instead of competing.

6. Practice Gratitude

• Focus on what you have, rather than what you lack.
• Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of your blessings.

Final Thoughts

Penyakit terpaling is a modern challenge many of us face, but it’s possible to overcome it by shifting our mindset. Let’s prioritize authenticity, self-acceptance, and genuine joy over the pressure to be “the most”. Remember, you are valuable, just as you are — not because you’re the best, but because you’re you.

You don’t need to be terpaling anything to be worthy.