Toke Makinwa Encourages Young People to Uphold High Standards in Love and Reject Societal Pressure

Popular media figure and lifestyle entrepreneur Toke Makinwa has delivered a stirring message about love, self-worth, and the toxic nature of online relationship discourse. On a recent episode of her podcast, Makinwa took a firm stance against the idea that individuals—particularly women—should compromise their relationship expectations due to societal judgment or external pressures.

The podcast, known for its candid explorations of personal growth, relationships, and societal issues, took a particularly bold turn as Makinwa challenged the growing tendency to shame others for their romantic preferences, especially when financial expectations come into play. She didn’t mince words when expressing her frustration with the judgmental tone often seen on social media whenever someone dares to express what they truly want in a partner.

Choosing clarity over diplomacy, she explained that it’s entirely reasonable for individuals to have standards that reflect their desires, goals, and self-respect. “There’s no need to attack someone for wanting more,” she said. “If their standard doesn’t suit you, keep it moving. There are billions of people in the world.”

Her perspective struck a chord with listeners, particularly young people navigating the increasingly complex landscape of modern relationships. Rather than bowing to the pressure of settling just to appear ‘reasonable’ or ‘realistic,’ Makinwa encouraged her audience to aim higher—not just in love, but in life.

Modern dating, she argued, is fraught with judgment and unsolicited opinions, especially online. Those who choose to prioritize ambition, lifestyle compatibility, or financial stability in their relationships often find themselves accused of being superficial or materialistic. Yet Makinwa urged listeners to recognize these criticisms as more reflective of the critics’ insecurities than any actual moral failing.

“What we’re seeing,” she said, “is a culture where people are more comfortable tearing others down than facing the reasons they feel threatened by someone else’s confidence. If someone’s expectations don’t align with yours, that’s not your battle. Move on.”

Her message was particularly poignant when addressing the criticisms often directed at women who express a desire for financially stable partners. Makinwa described how men who can’t or don’t wish to meet those expectations often react with resentment, labeling women as greedy rather than acknowledging a mismatch in values.

“If you say, ‘Oh, this girl is a money-hungry b!tch,’ all she wants is a man to pay her bills—then don’t date her,” she asserted. “There’s another guy who does what she’s looking for.”

That kind of self-awareness, she noted, is missing from much of the social media commentary on love and dating. Rather than allowing someone to live according to their own values, many people attempt to impose their perspectives as if there’s only one correct way to love. Makinwa took issue with this lack of nuance, suggesting it creates unnecessary friction in both the digital and real worlds.

Through a mix of humor, personal reflection, and tough love, she urged her listeners to disengage from these judgmental conversations and instead channel their energy into finding what aligns with their spirit. “You can go and find somebody who has what you’re looking for,” she said with conviction. “Stop letting society dictate.”

She also highlighted the importance of self-belief, using the metaphor of someone waking up and declaring themselves royalty. “If they believe it and they think it and they’re walking in it—who are you to tell them they are not?” she asked rhetorically, underscoring her core message: validation must first come from within.

By challenging societal expectations and pushing back against toxic online commentary, Makinwa’s podcast episode became more than just relationship advice—it was a rallying cry for individuality, confidence, and emotional sovereignty.

As her voice continues to resonate across media platforms, Toke Makinwa stands as a bold advocate for the right to love on one’s own terms, free from guilt, shame, or compromise. Her words serve not just as encouragement but as a wake-up call to anyone still believing they must settle to be accepted.