We often hear stories about men who started out with nothing, then slowly rose, became successful, and eventually won the hearts of women who once doubted them. This “zero to hero” story is often found in films, novels, and even on social media. It seems romantic, inspiring, and full of hope. But there is another side to this narrative that is rarely talked about: how the romantic promises built in the “zero to hero” story can become a trap that corners and harms women.
What is Zero to Hero Syndrome?
“Zero to Hero Syndrome” is a narrative pattern or perspective that depicts a man as a failure or mediocre figure who then becomes a ‘hero’ after achieving success or recognition. In the context of romance, this story often involves a woman who:
- Rejecting a guy when he's still 'zero'
- Considered materialistic or impatient
- Then “judged” socially when the man becomes successful.
Narratives like this can reinforce the stereotype that women only love men for their wealth or status, without looking at other values such as character, attitude, or equality in the relationship.
Who Benefits and Who Loses?
The “zero to hero” story elicits a great deal of empathy for men, even when they exhibit manipulative or coercive behavior. On the other hand, women who reject men early on are often stigmatized, as if they have no right to make choices based on comfort or personal values.
The effects could be like this:
- Women are socially pressured: “Look, she rejected that guy before but now her boyfriend is successful.”
- Men feel entitled to women’s love: “I’ve worked hard, I deserve her.”
- Relationships become a means of proof, not cooperation: The goal is no longer shared happiness, but to prove that the man is “worthy of love.”
Examples on Social Media
On TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, we often see “once rejected, now regretful” transformation videos. The content shows men who were once considered ordinary, now appear cool, rich, and respected. Then added with the narration: “that's why you shouldn't underestimate people.”
While this content can be motivating, it also normalizes the idea that women should regret rejecting men, without considering the context or the woman's personal choices.
Why Is This Phenomenon Problematic?
This phenomenon can have negative effects, especially in forming unhealthy expectations about relationships. Here are some reasons why:
- Ignoring women's right to freely choose a partner
- Using success as a tool for emotional revenge
- Reinforcing a misogynistic culture that demands women submit to male narratives
A healthy relationship should grow out of communication, trust, and mutual respect, not out of revenge or proving one's point.
Need for a More Balanced Narrative
We don't need to erase the "from zero to hero" story, but we have to present it with a fairer perspective. Women have full rights to their love choices. Rejecting someone is not arrogant, but rather part of a life decision that must be respected.
On the other hand, men can also be valued not because of their status or wealth, but because of the character and values they bring to the relationship.
Conclusion
Zero to Hero Syndrome teaches us to rethink how we view romance and success. Love stories should not be a tool for revenge or self-esteem. Instead, true love grows from mutual understanding, not from a narrative that corners one party.
For those of you who want to be successful, be the best version of yourself, not to prove it to others, but for your own happiness. And for those of you who choose a partner, remember that you have full rights over who you love and who you reject.
