The "Lucky Girl Syndrome"

An In-Depth Analysis



The trend currently known as "Lucky Girl Syndrome" is an example of how an excess of positivity can take a toxic turn. Mastering this approach is more important than we might think.

If you're a frequent user of social media, chances are you've come across videos starring young women confidently and enthusiastically proclaiming their constant good fortune. This peculiar phenomenon, called the "Lucky Girl Syndrome", has become a viral trend on the Internet. According to this belief, by constantly repeating to the universe how lucky we are, we will be rewarded with all kinds of fulfilled wishes, whether it is a job promotion, a marriage proposal or a salary increase, according to our aspirations.

However, for every video that enthusiastically supports this idea, there is another that vehemently criticizes the movement, arguing that it is toxic positivism. So what exactly is 'Lucky Girl Syndrome'?

“Depending on who you consult, this practice can be seen as an empowering exercise that helps you achieve your dreams by daily repeating positive affirmations like 'Everything in my life is flowing successfully,'” explains Lisa Quinn, a coaching expert. . “On the other hand, it is also perceived as a toxic and exclusionary trend on social media, dominated by young, wealthy white women who do not recognize their own privileges.”

Quinn points out that the popularity of this approach lies in its simplicity. “Repeating phrases like 'I'm always successful' is quick and easy,” he says. “The feeling of being in control of our own destiny is extremely powerful.”

Lisa Quinn then dives us into the concept behind this novel trend, breaking down the positives and negatives of adopting this perspective, while also proposing an alternative personal development strategy that deserves our attention.

The Benefits of a “Lucky Girl” Mentality “Lucky Girl Syndrome” is a manifestation based on the idea of ​​luck. Our brains naturally tend toward negativity, a trait ingrained since the dawn of time. Since our brains have not undergone significant evolution, any approach that challenges this negative bias can be extremely useful.

“Mel Robbins, New York Times bestselling author and motivational speaker, uses an insightful metaphor. She compares our mindset to a pair of sunglasses: they define our perception of the world. Our view of the world has a profound impact on our actions and behaviors.”

The Downsides "Lucky Girl Syndrome" ignores the unfair nature of life, ignoring that some people enjoy greater privileges than others. It does not recognize the systemic and structural prejudices and inequalities that persist in our world.

“Furthermore, it does not take into account negative emotions, an intrinsic part of human life. Suppressing these emotions does not promote self-pity, and although it may seem to work in the short term, in the long run, these emotions will come back to affect us.” In essence, “Lucky Girl Syndrome” shares similarities with toxic positivity. If it doesn't give results, this approach could be added to the list of reasons to feel bad about ourselves.

Repetition of Affirmations is Not Enough “There is evidence to show that positive thinking alone has its limitations. While adopting a positive mindset can encourage actions to improve our lives, it will not be able to pay our mortgages or guarantee us job promotions. Unfortunate events happen to all people, even the virtuous. And, unfortunately, not everyone has equal access to resources and opportunities.”

Experiment with the WOOP Strategy “My suggestion to people is a methodology backed by two decades of scientific research. Known as WOOP (Want, Result, Obstacle and Plan), this strategy was conceived by German academic Gabriele Oettingen. It is an approach that not only helps you realize your desires, but also considers the obstacles that could arise on your path to your dreams. Oettingen examined positive thinking and concluded that we will achieve better results if we anticipate possible difficulties. The WOOP methodology encourages you to dream big, to meditate on what you want and the results you seek, but also to contemplate the likely challenges and plan accordingly. “My clients have found this strategy tremendously beneficial.”

Is "Lucky Girl Syndrome" real? “It is undeniable that thousands of women on social media have found success with this practice, and no one knows them better than themselves. I would not recommend abandoning it to anyone who feels that it is working for them. However, I also think it has certain disadvantages. Until scientific research provides us with a definitive answer, we will remain uncertain…”