Melissa Chen, a prominent journalist and activist, recently sparked widespread discussion with a tweet asserting that the popular adage "you can be anything you want to be" is a "lie" that has led to a disillusioned generation. Her statement, shared on social media, critiques the potential negative consequences of this pervasive message on youth.
"We need to stop telling children that they can be 'anything they want to be.' It’s a lie. And look what we’ve done now that a whole generation believed it," Chen stated in her tweet.
Chen, known for her classical liberal views and advocacy for free speech, often comments on societal and cultural trends. Her work as Managing Director of Ideas Beyond Borders and New York Editor of Spectator USA frequently involves challenging conventional wisdom and promoting critical thinking.
The sentiment expressed in Chen's tweet resonates with a growing body of psychological and sociological commentary that questions the unqualified promotion of limitless potential. Experts suggest that while encouraging ambition is vital, an unchecked "you can be anything" message can foster unrealistic expectations, leading to anxiety, disappointment, and a lack of resilience when individuals inevitably encounter limitations or setbacks in their chosen paths.
This perspective highlights a potential disconnect between aspirational messaging and the realities of competitive job markets, inherent aptitudes, and the necessity of practical skills. Critics of the "you can be anything" narrative argue that it can inadvertently discourage the development of grit and adaptability, crucial traits for navigating a complex world where success often requires facing and overcoming significant obstacles.
The debate underscores a broader conversation about how society prepares young people for adulthood. Rather than solely emphasizing boundless possibilities, some educators and commentators advocate for a more balanced approach that combines encouragement with realistic guidance, fostering a deeper understanding of individual strengths and weaknesses, and promoting the value of perseverance in the face of challenges.