Am I Too Tall? Dealing with Being Over 6'0 in a Tall-Friendly World

Being over 6 feet tall is not uncommon in many parts of the world, yet it still involves unique challenges and considerations. This piece explores the experiences of a young individual who stands at 6'6, providing insights and advice for those who feel they are 'too tall.'

Understanding Height Consensus

At 5'8, you might think you're already tall, but in many countries, this height is considered average or even below average. Even so, I'm sharing my perspective as someone who is 16 years old and just shy of 6 feet 6 inches, standing much taller than my family and most people around me. This realization didn't hit until around Year 4 of primary school, when I started to notice that I was taller than some of my male teachers.

Rapid Growth and Self-Perception

By the time I turned 13, I was a full 6 feet tall, and my growth continued at a rapid pace. So here comes the crucial question: is there such a thing as being 'too tall'? The answer is no. Like anything in life, being tall comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Discomfort in Everyday Life

Public transportation and even simply sitting can be a nightmare. My family car is barely accommodating, and air travel becomes a painful experience. A few weeks ago, I went to the theatre with a friend, and I had to contort my legs to avoid hitting the seat in front of me, which was a 3-hour movie. Public transportation and seating arrangements often leave me cramped and uncomfortable.

Social Jokes and Comments

People often make jokes about height, viewing it as socially acceptable laughter. However, these comments can be quite annoying. Every new acquaintance often starts with a comment about my height, sometimes in a snarky way, undermining any other conversation. This can be draining when you meet people who immediately focus on your height instead of your personality or interests.

Public Perception and Staring

Standing out in public can be a challenge. People will stare, especially children, and it can make you feel different from those around you. For me, my dyed red hair definitely doesn't help in blending in. Despite all this, I remain content with my height. Life has its annoyances, and adapting to them is part of growing up.

Pros and Cons of Being Over 6'0

While there are certainly challenges, being this tall also comes with advantages. I stand out, and that can be empowering. People often look up to me, and I can reach things that most can't. However, this also means dealing with the occasional mishap and discomfort in certain situations.

For boys, being over 6 feet is not considered tall at all and is slightly below average. For girls, you are noticeably very tall but not too tall. Being aware of these perceptions and understanding how to handle them can make a significant difference in your daily life.

In conclusion, while there are undoubtedly challenges, being over 6'0 is just another aspect of your unique experience. Embrace it and focus on the positives, as everyone has their struggles. Trust your journey and enjoy the journey of self-acceptance!