Have you ever watched a TV show or movie and knew exactly what motivated you to see it?
Maybe you were drawn into the romantic plot, haunting thriller, impressing drama, thrilling mystery, or comedy.
Last week I wrote about the Squid Game. And, this week I have more answers on why it’s the most-watched show ever on Netflix.
Revisit or read article 1: Squid Game Is a Hit. Here’s Why It’s So Popular.
I promise NOT to give any spoiler alerts for those who haven’t seen Squid Game yet.
The main plot is that 456 humans are driven to play a game of death and survival in the hope of winning $38 million. While other characters feel entitled to watch their fellow beings squirm in fear and misery.
The Conflict and Themes in Squid Game 
There are so many themes in this 9 part series.
- Social instability
- Study of Human Beings
- Good versus evil
- Inequality
- Insecurity
- Mind games
- Poverty and desperation
- The meaning of life
- Can money bring us happiness
How Money Plays a Role in the Squid Game Conflict
Many of us have experienced how money can turn us against one another in our families.
Whether we have too much or too little can ruin our lives.
Additionally, the ending of the movie was fascinating and troublesome. No, I won’t disclose this. 🙂
Questions from You About the Conflict in Squid Game
Thanks to several of you who sent me a private email with your questions.
- Is it safe to watch with my kids?
I don’t want to sound like a politician. Especially because it depends on your children’s age and tolerance to violence.
I suggest that you watch 2 episodes to make sure you are comfortable giving the green light to your kids to watch the Squid Game.
2. My friends tell me how they couldn’t stop watching it. Tell us why Joyce.
I really can’t tell you why. Additionally, I know that I’m one of those who was curious enough to keep on watching it.
Many of you know that I’m a conflict resolution coach. Curiosity is in my DNA. My son suggested that I “try” watching it since he knows his mom.
I’m open and eager to learn new research about conflict. That’s one of my motivations for starting this blog in 2010.
All I can say is that I completed the first season in 5 days. And was shocked at the ending.
3. Joyce, is it worth watching Squid Game?
It’s worth watching if you can stand all the violence and tragedy.
It’s a test in NOT judging others. We have no idea how we would act if we were one of the 456 players.
It’s not a show to enjoy. Even though I laughed a few times. I warn you NOT to watch it before bedtime – especially if you have an addictive personality. Don’t blame me if you stay up late binge-watching. 🙂
A Curious Conversation at the Hair Salon
My hairstylist and I were discussing the plot since she decided not to watch it. Six people in the salon heard us talking and they came running up to us.
The conversation was so engaging. All six of these people felt the same that I did. None of us could give a logical reason why we were so drawn to the series. Yet, we couldn’t stop talking about the plot.
An interesting fact is that the ages ranged from 16 years old to 85 in this spirited beauty salon discussion.
Final Thoughts About the Conflict in the Squid Game
I repeat that curiosity is an important part of my thinking process. My natural skill is to coach others to find their own answers. All I do is ask questions 🙂
I had to find out why there was so much hype about this show.
Sure I started out watching just to explore this series.
The meaning of life became apparent at the end. What does our life mean? What do we still need to achieve or do to feel satisfied?
I found many answers a few days after I finished watching the last (9th) episode.
Clients ask me to support them with stressful situations in their life.
One of the questions they delve into is, “How can I learn from some major mistakes that I made?” Or, “Conflict is standing in my way and I feel stuck. How can I move forward either in my career or with my personal relationships?”
A big takeaway for me is to stop judging ourselves. And, if possible, how to accept others’ differences and decisions. Both of these are not easy to do. Additionally, this is not new for any of us. Yet, judgment gets in our way during the conflict.
One of my many strategies is that real growth comes after we fail, learn from our mistakes, and stay curious even during tough times.
Let’s Stay Connected
Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?
You can share in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.
Until Next Time,
Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution
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P.P.S. I coach emerging leaders, executives, teams, and Human Resource Professionals to feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool – so they feel heard and respected.
P.P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach? It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule.
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