Do the societal demands of performance drive us to self-transcendence or self-destruction?

In my personal opinion, such demands drive us to self-destruction. The society around us is constantly pressuring us to be better, to surpass others, to perform things that we may not be ready or willing or able to do. This puts a strain on anyone, because we are always thinking we have to do more, achieve more, especially if we see our friends and colleagues successful. The emphasis of performance and success in contemporary society can be overwhelming, and can lead a person into destruction if they are unable to conform.