He isn't necessarily the most popular guy at school, or in the workplace, or wherever he resides. It is a lot more profound than that. What distinguishes a golden boy from the rest is an intangible quality. You can't quite put a finger on it, but there is something there.
A golden boy could also be female, but for the sake of simplicity, let's only refer to the male in this article.
Like I mentioned before, a golden boy is not defined by his "privilege", or status in society, or the school he went to, or car he drives. A golden boy is not defined by the number of friends he has, or how cultured he may be. As a matter a fact, a golden boy could come from a humble home, from working class parents, doing what he does best: blending in with the rest.
You see, the golden boy is social with the entire world. He is a chameleon. He is able to chat it up with anyone and everyone, adapt to his environment and impress the masses with his humor, charisma and that intangible trait I can't quite put a finger on, and to be honest, don't completely understand. It is just there.
The golden boy aims to impress, never wants to leave anyone behind, and becomes a leader on occasions, if need be. The golden boy is nurturing, and likable, and seems he has got it all together; nothing phases him. He is impervious to the challenges of life.
There is only one problem with that facade put on by the golden boy: he is not perfect.
Still a kind soul, stuck in the "first impression" phase
The difference between a regular person and a golden boy is: the golden boy is stuck on that "first impression" phase. That means the golden boy is always pleasant with many people, always aiming to please, and as a result, they are the most loyal and obedient to others. Suffice to say, they never catch a break, as they are always in impressing mode.
This is especially true in the workforce. If you spot a golden boy at your company, it is likely he is always upbeat with everyone, not only his higher ups, but everyone in awe of his presence, demeanor, kindness and authentic soul. They are likely to get promotions, and excel, as they are hard and dedicated workers. Everyone is drawn to the golden boy, and since the golden boy aims to please others, he is always attentive and vigilant, making sure all around him are happy with him.
The "It" factor, the intangible quality that distinguishes the golden boys
This intangible and essential quality the golden boy has is will power. Golden boys are determined to always remain positive, never let anyone down, while keeping themselves grounded, as that aids in making them seem normal and well kept. That's right, the golden boy is a saint, and could do no wrong. Perfection, right?
The thing about that is, even though very modest to remain grounded, it is impossible for the golden boy. They are their own toughest critics, and judge themselves harshly. When they don't reach their goals, they are way too hard on themselves, making them become conflicted with themselves.
And although one might say, "Well, aren't we all our toughest critic?", the golden boy can't handle failure, and can't handle disappointment -- they are extremely sensitive, and don't know how to cope properly.
Overdeveloped with impressing, underdeveloped with coping
The golden boy, although appearing to have it all together, is extremely sensitive. Who knows why they are, they just are. They are so used to meeting everyone else's needs, that they forget to care for themselves. They give and they give, and are determined to stay positive and strong for everyone around them, they become these warriors with no shoulder to lean on, as everyone leans on them already.
They can't reveal too much, because then others would see they are human, and god forbid someone finds out that. In their mind, revealing they're human side is not an option. No, they need to constantly be the exemplary person that honors their family. They think that this will make their family and friends happy, if they keep up this act, but that is not the case.
The impressive part to note here is the golden boy's will power to keep up this act. They do not get exhausted, and that is admirable. They are so passionate about the people around them, they will do anything to make them happy -- even, become perfectionists, and sacrifice their own happiness.
Who will save the golden boy from himself?
Although you would never see a golden boy break down -- they do that behind closed doors -- don't tell a golden boy you are not impressed with them, it will hurt them. No, not their ego, remember, they are kind souls -- you would hurt their feelings. They are not used to disappointing people, but when they do, and they find out, it breaks their heart. They can't stand the idea of disappointing someone, as all they know is to impress others.
The sad truth is, it is difficult to help a golden boy, because the golden sees himself as a burden to others, and will rarely reveal they actually need help. The golden boy has too much pride to allow others to help him, even though they are in great need of it. Imagine, having to always be the perfect one, constantly fearing to show a glimpse of vulnerability? That is sad.
If you ever have the privilege of interacting with a golden boy, please let them know they are human. It is ok for them to make mistakes, and not to be so hard on themselves. This will help them greatly, and hopefully they will be on their way towards recovery from the Golden Boy Syndrome.
Take it from a survivor of the Golden Boy Syndrome.
