Trapped in Glamour: Pakistani Youth and the Race of Unreal Standards

With changing times and trends, Pakistani youngsters strongly desire to be more advanced than others. On one hand, this inspires them to become the most polished version of themselves; on the other hand, it puts them at risk of engaging in a never-ending and unwinnable competition. In Pakistani society — despite being a Muslim nation — many have almost forgotten the true meaning and message of Islam. Islam is a religion that emphasizes Wasatiyyah (الوسطية) — the middle path, balance, and avoidance of extremes. It preaches moderation in every aspect of life.

Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And thus We have made you a justly balanced nation (Ummah Wasat), that you will be witnesses over mankind…”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:143)

This verse shows that moderation is the very identity of Muslims — they are neither extremists nor careless, but a model of balance. Yet a pressing question arises: why have our youngsters in particular, and society in general, failed to practice الوسطية (moderation) in real life?

In Pakistan, a large number of individuals remain unhappy with their jobs, careers, and educational degrees, often finding a mismatch between their choices and their personal interests. What causes this contradiction? The answer lies in societal pressure. Young people are pushed to attain glamorous positions, to remain in constant comparison, and to chase hollow standards of success. Society glorifies only the highest positions in terms of jobs, careers, and living standards. As a result, youngsters are trapped in an endless race that drains their energy and dedication to the point of despair.

This reflects a clear neglect of Islam’s teaching of moderation. By abandoning the essence of balance, Pakistani youth are left restless — competing financially, academically, socially, and personally. The Holy Prophet ﷺ said:
“Make things easy, and do not make them difficult.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Losing balance in life leads directly to despair. Sadly, many Pakistani youngsters today are suffering from this pandemic of hopelessness, because they were never taught to follow الوسطية — the middle path. Allama Iqbal beautifully said:
“اعتدال ہے رازِ حیاتِ جاوِداں”
(Moderation is the secret of eternal life.)

There is an urgent need to save our youth from the trap of extremes and fake glamour that destroy mental peace. Pakistani youngsters should work hard, but not worship their jobs; dream big, but not at the cost of inner peace. A balanced approach would allow society to value genuine passion and contentment over blind competition. This way, individuals will learn to love and respect their work, without falling prey to greedy rivalries that leave them empty-handed.