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A wave of positivity seems to be slowly trickling over the celebrity landscape, with a focus on rising above negativity and taking the high road instead. This trend, fueled in part by the success of Avni Parekh’s guidebook Be The Bigger Person: Scenarios & Solutions to Better Yourself, is encouraging stars to embrace the concept of “being the bigger person.”

Parekh's self-help book, which she self-published in 2018, delves into effectively managing interpersonal conflicts and the transformative power of choosing self-control over anger and retaliation. The book's strength lies in its structure which offers a three-pronged approach for each scenario. First, she presents a relatable situation, like a friend betraying you or a coworker trying to undermine your hard work. Next, she offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging the hurt or frustration these situations can cause. After that, the thoughtful author provides practical solutions and positive takeaways.

This focus on solutions is what separates Be The Bigger Person from other self-help books. The award-winning author doesn't just tell you to calm down or let it go, instead, she equips readers with tools to manage their emotions and choose a constructive response.

Celebs That Identify With Taking the High Road

Finally, the message seems to be steadily resonating among celebrities, with many advocating the concept to their fans. In fact, Actress Halle Berry shared an Instagram post in 2023 reflecting on being the bigger person in regards to a public disagreement with singer Drake. The Marvel heroine stated: “…When people you admire disappoint you, you have to be the bigger person and move on!”

That same year, a similar sentiment was echoed by digital marketer and podcaster Gary Vaynerchuk, who wrote an article on his website encouraging fans to “be the bigger person.” In Vaynerchuk’s words, “Being the bigger person is always cool, it’s always right! We need to bring that mindset into our lives in a conscious manner so we collectively live more joyful lives.”

To add to that, some of the Kardashian sisters and even members of the British royal family have been described as the “bigger person” in op-ed pieces over the last few years as both families have experienced very public feuds and chosen to take the high road by focusing on pertinent priorities instead of partaking in public shaming matches.

The movement extends beyond celebrities and permeates social media as well. The message has spread among TikTokers and Instagram influencers who incorporate the theme into their tiktoks and reels, urging their audiences to find humor instead of getting hung up on negativity. This shift in focus is refreshing for many, as society has become accustomed to learning about the often-petty drama that can unfold in the public eye.

Adopting a “Be The Bigger Person” Mindset

However, for all the people who embrace the mindset, there are just as many that don’t. The real question is, can celebrities known for their fiery personalities truly embrace a long-term commitment to positivity? Parekh acknowledges this concern but remains optimistic.

“Celebrities have a unique ability to influence societal norms. When they choose the high road over conflict, it sends a powerful message. The key is momentum,” she says. Indeed, millions of fans, especially young people, look up to entertainers in the public eye. “Imagine the impact if all celebrities adopted and championed this principle,” Parekh ponders. “It sets a new standard for how we handle conflict, both in the public eye and in our daily lives. By modeling positive communication strategies, celebrities and public figures can inspire a generation to handle conflict with maturity and grace.”

The Family Karma star emphasizes the importance of positive reinforcement. “Social media plays a crucial role in this,” she notes. “By seeking out content that amplifies messages of positivity, you drown out negativity.” Parekh says this was the primary reason she expanded her BTBP merchandise line to include Be The Bigger Person athleisure – “to further solidify the value a powerful message can have on the human psyche.” She points out that by wearing clothing with words that act as a constant reminder to rise above, it subconsciously redirects neural pathways to focus on the bigger picture rather than succumb to anger.

Photo byBTBbook.com

Author Avni Parekh Says Rising Above Benefits All

Critics may argue that celebrities are simply following a fad. However, the potential benefits of this movement are undeniable. By choosing to elevate themselves above negativity, celebrities can inspire a culture of empathy and understanding that extends far beyond the world of entertainment. “The more celebrities that embrace this ‘be the bigger person’ approach, the more normalized it becomes. It creates a domino effect and encourages others to follow suit.”

Ultimately, the success of the “Be The Bigger Person” movement hinges on its longevity, to which Parekh replies; “I’ve taken active steps since 2014 to bring this important philosophy to light. From books to merchandise to apparel and appearing on Bravo TV – there’s always more to come. Plus, my art and book tour, which kicked off in 2023, was also integral to helping spread the message.”

Now, if more celebrities can maintain this positive shift, they have the power to create a ripple effect that fosters more respectful and compassionate interactions, not just in the world of celebrity gossip, but in society at large. “This is a philosophy that can benefit everyone,” Parekh concludes. “In our daily lives, we all face disagreements. Choosing to rise above negativity, even in small ways, can create a more peaceful and positive environment for ourselves and those around us.”