The Self Destruct Button of Life Today

The Dangers of Constant Stimulation, High Expectations, and a Society Built on Instantaneous Gratification  

Instant gratification. An influential pillar of America’s current cultural climate that has taken our society by storm, creating a whirlwind of ideological and societal evolution. The unfavorable presence of instant gratification is exemplified through Bradford Veley’s cartoon (pictured above), which highlights American’s destructive craving and expectation for constant stimulation. 

The negative implications of instant gratification have not only generated a surplus of change, but have directly targeted the youth of America. An upbringing built on the unsteady foundations of these harmful cultural advancements has embedded unrealistic and even self-destructive expectations into young adults. The “self-destruct button” that is these expectations has prompted a rude awakening for the youth of America, for it is not constant stimulation that will bring these lifestyles, but a renewed perspective that encourages self-growth aided by contemporary ideologies and exemplified through the workforce and societal tides. 

The lengthy list of occupational opportunities available to American citizens should not be taken lightly. That being said, in order to get anywhere in life one must work for it. Just because an individual desires a trip around the globe or an apartment overlooking a glimmering city does not mean it is owed to them, though the heavy influence of unrealistic mindsets says otherwise. These mindsets that are put forth are upheld by consumer culture and societal pressures. This inhumane mindset only calls for disaster – a disaster that creates a magnitude of issues regarding, morality and basic functionality within the workforce and society. Revolutionary discoveries and life-altering advancements don’t appear out of thin air -- they take perseverance and come by ways of suffering. In order for the rising generation to build on the successes of those who came before them, it must persist through its learned habits of dependence on instant gratification and devote oneself to their personal purpose. The sooner the youth combine foundational and contemporary ideologies in an effective and efficient manner, the better off the future of America and its future citizens will be. 

Despite societal beliefs, instant gratification does not equal happiness – the youth of America cannot be dependent on unrealistic lifestyles and attitudes. In order to avoid this tragic end, they must be proud of their lifestyles, or at least strive to reach a lifestyle that submits their minds and hearts to topics outside of the habits of oneself, and not condemn themselves when things do not immediately go their way. When they are truly capable of pride in themselves, they will realize the significance of their personal advancements with humility. 

In theory, instant gratification is easy and logical, but just because it is easy does not mean that it is the best option. Breaking instinctual habits and refocusing the present-day beliefs onto a more realistic and efficient tactics is what is best for the ever-changing society of 21st century America, especially when tackling the topic of social class and comparison.

Change is inevitable, healthy even. But what isn’t healthy? Allowing change to dismantle the foundations established for citizens and their country’s well-being, safety, and success; that is a rash and unwise strategy. Younger generations must learn that while the world is right at their fingertips, it does not mean that life is instantaneous. When young adults seamlessly merge contemporary and conservative outlooks and functionalities, that’s when that “self-destruct button” disappears and transforms into a union in which citizens once more have an independent path to their happiness.