Why Society’s Lie of "Having It All" Is Ruining Our Lives — And What We Should Be Doing Instead
In today’s world, we’ve been sold an impossible dream. We’re constantly told that we can have it all — the perfect career, the ideal family, glowing health, a vibrant social life, and endless hobbies. Social media glamorises it, advertising promotes it, and somewhere along the way, we’ve convinced ourselves that this is not just desirable, but achievable. But the harsh truth is that society has led us down a path that only ends in burnout, stress, and dissatisfaction.
The Myth of Perfection
The idea of "having it all" is a fantasy that pressures us to perform in every area of life, all at once. We feel the need to be the best in our careers, maintain perfect relationships, look after our health, pursue personal growth, and be there for friends and family — all while smiling through the chaos. It’s no surprise that over 59% of women report feeling like they’re not doing “enough” when measured against these unrealistic standards (Stylist.co.uk).
When you think about it, how can we give100% to all of this? The short answer: we can't. We’re burning out faster than ever before, and it’s time to let go of this false ideal.
What Really Matters: Defining Your Life Values
The key to breaking free from the myth of perfection is simple: prioritisation. Instead of chasing someone else’s definition of success, it’s time to align your life with your unique values. What is most important to you? Maybe it’s quality time with family, or perhaps it’s pursuing a creative passion. For some, it might be excelling in their career, while for others, it's maintaining strong mental and physical health.
We help you strip back the noise and zero in on what truly matters.
One of our most powerful tools is our Life Values Quiz. This simple yet transformative exercise helps you define and understand your core values, guiding you to focus on the areas of life that bring you genuine joy and fulfilment.
Take the quiz here: Find Your Life Values.
When you live in alignment with your values, life becomes simpler. You stop feeling guilty for not "doing it all" and start celebrating the things you’re truly passionate about.
Stop the Comparison Trap
Another crucial step in releasing the pressure to have it all is stepping out of the comparison game. Social media has exacerbated the lie, showcasing perfectly curated images of people seemingly managing their perfect lives. But these are just that — images, not reality. The constant exposure to this highlights reel distorts our perception, making us believe we’re somehow falling short.
We challenge you to redefine what success looks like for you, outside of society’s expectations. Success might not be a flashy job or an exotic holiday every few months. It might simply mean having peace of mind, a balanced life, and fulfilling relationships.
The New Path Forward: What to Focus On
Here’s the truth: you don’t need to have it all. What you need is to focus on having what really matters. And that’s different for everyone. It’s about setting boundaries, letting go of perfectionism, and carving out space for the things that align with your values. At MindVibes, we’ve helped over 700 individuals rediscover their sense of purpose by focusing on what truly matters to them, not what the world expects.
Final Thoughts
Society’s lie of having it all is robbing us of joy, clarity, and balance. Instead of trying to manage every area of life to perfection, why not focus on what’s truly important to you? Take the first step by discovering your life values today, and start living in alignment with who you really are.
Let’s rewrite the narrative and embrace a life that feels fulfilling — not exhausting.
Take the quiz here: Find Your Life Values.