There is just something curious about how people treat iPhone in Ghana, honestly, in most part of the world. You will see someone buy a brand new iPhone and all of a sudden it becomes a status announcement being broadcasted everywhere. Holding it as if it is an egg, taking pictures Infront of mirrors here and there, and causally dropping the word iPhone in every bit of conversation even when not needed, kind of annoying sometimes. But the question here is: Why do people(we) flex an iPhone like it is some kind of life achievement? I won’t be surprised if I am part tho, lol. But wait, what could be the cause? Let's delve into it;
The Psychology Behind the Flex
The iPhone is not just a phone (any ordinary electronic device) it is a symbol of respect, class, or even taste. Apple has branded iPhone in such a way that everyone that get in possession of one automatically get into these thoughts. In this generation, there is this societal mentality where material possessions are tied to social respect and recognition. The iPhone now becomes one of this material possession. It is a sticker (badge) showing belonging to an executive class or group.
In these days, everybody wants to be seen doing very well. And phones have become the easiest visible items for showcasing levels and class. Besides, not everyone can show off their account details and balance yet the iPhone 15, 16 and almighty 17 can be seen by the world when taking pictures at every event.
Social Media and Peer Pressure
One major thing leading to this is social media and the peer pressure that comes with it. A lot of comparison here and there. Tiktok influencers showing off in reels and so forth, Instagram, Snap and the rest are always seen flaunting the latest iPhone. Indirect pressure is created among people especially the youth who are also aiming at becoming public figures and becoming like what they see their favorite celebrities do. The fame, and the modern nature comes with some display of levels just as seen on the net. Taking pictures with and iPhone looks as if that is the most recent Sony camera.
And so, when someone is fortunate enough to get a piece of this gadget(iPhone), there is this urge to broadcast the news to everyone – a way of shouting “I have leveled up too”.
The Flex Culture in Ghana
Flex culture in Ghana is very strong just as in other parts of the world. People are fun of flaunting gadgets like cars, sneakers, designer clothes, foods and not forgetting – iPhone. But why does iPhone top it all? These are some psychologies behind this;
- Very expensive to acquire
- Apple is a global gadget and is recognized world wide
- Carries the Aura of Premium lifestyle
But Is It Really an Achievement?
This is an important conversation to get into. Here, the conversation gets very interesting when all views come onboard, yet I have my view on this question too. Some may agree some may disagree. Whatever be the case, I have a say concerning this issue and your opinions are welcomes as well.
Successfully acquiring an iPhone is not a life achievement, it is just a purchase of an electronic device to help with day-to-day activities. Like, connecting with friends and love ones, getting the items through the online shops, capturing those memorable moments, chale, add the rest. It might be so expensive, yes, we agree on that but in a way a liability. Although it can be used in the right to generate some income, but of course other phones can do same. So, why all this flex and flaunting here and there? It is just a mindset we need to critically look at and see how we can readjust our thinking.
The real achievement here is being able to provide for the family, build a business that serve as a source of income and making impact in the community.
One thing I have noticed is, the iPhone flaunting and flexing is temporal. Just look at how the latest drop of iPhone 17, Pro and Promax silenced the other ones. The expensive flex instantly deemed because it is old. Unlike actual life achievements that never gets outdated or expired.
Indeed, there us nothing wrong with buying an iPhone be it the old version or the most expensive one like the new beast in town – iPhone 17. Of course it is a great gadget, no doubt about that, and wouldn’t mind if someone gifts me one of the latest versions..hahahaaa. Nevertheless, we should be very careful not to mix up these two things; buying luxury and achieving a lifetime goal. These are totally two different things.
Feel free to flex as much as you want, and I won’t be surprise i am also a victim of that – Trust me the spirit of flex is in iPhone already. And anyone at all can be a victim.
Yet, what we need to know is that the phone is not something to brag about and see as an achievement and making ourselves as if we are better of than others who can't afford it. What truly matters is the value we create with our lives.
At the end of it all, it is better to be known for the impact we made with humanity and our relationship with God than for an iPhone.
What do you think? Is it really worth the flex?
Is it a life achievement ?
Whatever be the case,
I bet you have something to say concerning this new trend of flex all over the world, feel free to share your thought with us in the comment section!!.
Thank You ,Gracias!!!!