Challenging the Cult of 'Awesome'—Why Skepticism Is a Survival Skill in Hype Culture

You’re in your third meeting of the day, and the air vibrates with dozens of 'awesome!' exclamations, raucous laughter, and waves of all-caps enthusiasm. There’s a pressure to join in, to match the energy—even when you know not every outcome is truly remarkable. But behind the smiles, last quarter’s big project missed its main goal, and turnover is quietly rising; no one wants to discuss it. It feels risky to voice a doubt. Still, after a particularly jubilant team email, you take a coffee break with a longtime colleague and gently ask: 'Is it just me, or are we overselling what actually happened?'

She sighs, relief washing over her face. You swap short stories about things that could’ve gone better—without blaming each other. Later, you start a habit of jotting down observations after meetings, including moments that seem overinflated and questions worth asking. Next time, at a team check-in, you frame a hard question with care: 'I love the energy here. What do we think is the hardest thing we’re not talking about yet?'

Social psychology calls it groupthink: the failure to challenge consensus can make teams more vulnerable, less creative, and, ironically, less resilient. By practicing skepticism in small, constructive ways, you build group trust and protect your own critical thinking.

In the coming week, keep an eye out for moments of exaggerated praise or recurring 'awesome' pep rallies—when you notice them, pause and privately ask what challenges or failures might be slipping through the cracks. Pick someone you trust to share one honest doubt or tough question with, building a habit of reality-checking in a safe space. Once a month, work up the confidence to raise a thoughtful, constructive question at a team review or gathering—it could sound as simple as 'what would real success look like for us?' Over time, you’ll strengthen your own clarity and help your group become braver and more honest.