Sorry, there are no nudes in this article. “entrepreneurial porn” is a term often used to describe the glorification of the startup lifestyle and the portrayal of overnight success stories in the corporate world. But is it healthy?
The informal use of the word “porn” to describe something excessive or gratuitous is not limited to sexual content. It is often used to describe a wide range of subjects, from gruesome horror movies (gore porn) and decadent caloric food vlogs (food porn) to sexy luxury cars (car porn) and exotic travel destinations (travel porn). Similarly, “entrepreneurial porn” is used to describe the idealized representation of the culture of startups and achieving rapid success in the business world.
Does entrepreneurial porn serve?
Let’s face it: entrepreneurial porn often presents a skewed and unrealistic view of the entrepreneurial experience. It highlights the glamorous aspects of being a founder, while downplaying the hard work, dedication, and guts it takes to build a successful company. Many times, they are false stories like that of the former “King of Instagram”, Dan Bilzerian, whose life of luxury did not exactly come from his entrepreneurial skills.
This type of porn can lead to feelings of inadequacy and disappointment among those just starting out, as they may have a hard time living up to the ideals that are presented in the media. Something similar to “TikTokera” dysmorphia happens: I look in the mirror and find all the flaws I have, I can never be like them.
The other side of the coin is that corporate porn can also have a positive effect on some people. May:
- Serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for those who consider creating a company.
- Generate hope that if you work hard and smart, you can achieve success.
- Awaken an idea or inspire when you are immersed in difficult situations in the economic or job satisfaction.
Inspiration “TikTokera”
We cannot deny it: It is also true that there are stories of inspiration “TikTokera” where by seeing many people exercising, people are motivated and also transformed. Studies suggest that seeing many entrepreneurial stories can be a source of inspiration for some people. A study from the Toulouse Business School found that exposure to business models can increase a person’s entrepreneurial self-efficacy and their intention to start a business. Study participants who were exposed to successful entrepreneurs felt more confident in their ability to start a business and were more likely to take the first steps toward entrepreneurship.
Another publication by Babson University found that consuming entrepreneurship-related content on social media can inspire people to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok have allowed entrepreneurs to share their business journeys in a very personal and accessible way, it’s easier to see that they are just like us, making mistakes and learning from them. As a result, the study concluded that these platforms have the potential to inspire and motivate people to take the first steps towards entrepreneurship.
Can it be healthy?
As obvious as it may sound (such as social media using filters and selective omission of bodily flaws) it’s important to note that these success stories aren’t always representative of the typical entrepreneurial journey. Starting a business is hard work with a healthy dose of failure along the way. It is critical that aspiring entrepreneurs are aware of the potential drawbacks of consuming too much entrepreneurial porn and strive to strike a balance between inspiration and realistic expectations.
Corporate porn, like many other forms of “porn,” can be enjoyable and even healthy in moderation. But it’s like in sports: reality always hits the ground when you get euphoric with a “we won” or “we lost.” You played? Not to be a killjoy, enjoy it, but it’s like any porn: it’s better to do it yourself than just watch it, and no, you don’t need to be gifted.
Now that, if you are, go from being a consumer… to an actor, with your great entrepreneurial story.
Alejandro Llantada Toscano Specialist in persuasion, communication and marketing for companies and personalities. Graduated as LAE and Master in Marketing from Tec de Monterrey. He is a Master’s Professor at The College of Public Image and bestselling author of The Black Book of Persuasion, The Little Prince’s Strategy and Think Outside the Box.