Main Character Syndrome is a topic that’s widely discussed in English-language media and on social media, but is still relatively uncommon on French platforms. But what exactly is it?
The unofficial definition proposed by Psychology Today East :
“The tendency to see oneself as the protagonist of a fictionalized version of one’s own life, idealizing ordinary experiences and behaving in ways—especially online—as if one were living in a movie.”
Social media has fueled this need to be the center of attention. But is this syndrome beneficial or problematic?
Main Character Syndrome: A Critical View
Several experts believe that this phenomenon can lead to withdrawal and a form of narcissism. In the article by Dr. Manju Antil, “Main Character Syndrome and the Digital Self”, as well as in the publications of Aeon et Psychology Today, the syndrome is associated with:
- Excessive personal storytelling, leading to emotional disconnection
- A constant self-presentation, to the detriment of authenticity
- Treating others as “secondary characters” without depth
These excesses can lead to constant frustration, a search for emotional adrenaline, and difficulty fully experiencing simple moments. The authors also discuss theories such as Baudrillard’s hyperreality, Cooley’s mirror self, and Goffman’s theater of social life. We also find the concepts ofImaginary audience (Elkind) and theNarrative identity, where everyone scripts their life to gain meaning from it… or sometimes recognition.
Main Character Syndrome: A lever for well-being?
But conversely, other researchers see a positive dynamic in this. The study “The Role of Major vs. Minor Character Perception in Narrative Identity and Well-Being“ de Ryan Goffredi et Kennon M. Sheldon reveals that feeling like the main character in one’s own life would allow:
- Better mental health
- Greater motivation
- An increased sense of autonomy and control
Participants who perceive themselves as “secondary” in their own story are, conversely, more prone to demotivation, passivity and lower self-esteem.
What is the link with the hotel and restaurant industry?
You’ve read this far and you’re wondering: what does this have to do with hotels and restaurants?
Well, today, everyone wants to experience memorable moments, scenes worthy of a movie, “shareable” memories. Hotels and restaurants are no longer just places of passage: they are settings where we experience moments that must be memorable, personal and cinematic.
And sure, it can seem intimidating. But it can also be a great opportunity.
Here’s what you can do:
– Create a “Main Character” experience
- Design moments, not just spaces : think about the light, the aesthetics, the little details that make you want to take a photo.
- Signature elements : a colorful cocktail, a branded cup, an iconic mirror… small, strong visual cues.
- Personalization : welcome message, playlist in the room, little attention on the pillow.
- Putting customers first : If your customers take photos or videos, ask their permission to share them on your social media. This allows you to showcase their real experience at your establishment, while also making them happy.
– Give your teams a role
- Free them from technology : thanks to a good management tool, they can focus on people.
- Make them consistent : uniform, attitude, tone — everything contributes to creating a universe worthy of a movie.
– Invisible orchestration with the right tools
- Centralize preferences : room temperature, allergens, favorite table… everything is anticipated.
- Make everything smooth : the customer should feel nothing, except the magic of the moment.
And that’s where Medialog enters the scene.
Our PMS doesn’t just manage. It helps you create memorable experiences, streamline operations, and maintain brand consistency—including in the back office.
Conclusion
So, is this syndrome a risk or a lever? It doesn’t matter.
Because one thing is certain: your customers want to feel like the heroes of their own story.
Your hotel or restaurant can become that unforgettable setting. One where they experience a unique scene, share a sincere emotion… and want to return.
With the right mindset—and the right tools—your establishment can become their most beautiful chapter yet.
