“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars. – Oscar Wilde
Nowadays, it seems as though people tend to look at social media as their reality. Social media sites like Instagram and Facebook introduce one to a world where everyone has nothing but pitch-perfect lives. Photos that have been beautified from trips, events, and moments of joy are fed to us; all of this, however, is often quite deceiving because much of the reality is hidden behind the screen.
The Illusion of Perfection
People post their life’s best parts and make everything appear perfect. They post pictures of amazing dishes, high-class holidays, and perfect appearances. As much as these will encourage others, they also raise the bar high. Many who view them start comparing themselves with these perfect pictures and feel that they are living below standards. In the words of Theodore Roosevelt himself, “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
Pressure to Perform
Where the pressure now comes in for others with the emergence of social media is to keep up. Users engage in probably the useless search for likes and followers, thinking somehow that these numbers will define their worth. They create posts that look appealing while reality has been different. Behind all the filters and staged photos, people struggle with self-esteem and anxiety. This can all create a divide between persona and real feelings.
The Reality Behind the Posts
After all, life is not as glamorous as it seems. Behind the scenes, a lot of people are struggling and fighting their own battles, and they often don’t share the problematic aspects. They might be in stress, feeling lonely, or dealing with budget problems. Yet, through social media, a person is told to be happy. This is where again the disconnect can breed loneliness. One would begin to ask oneself, “Why is this not my life after all, it’s perfect on my screen?”
Authenticity Found
On the other hand, to balance out this illusion, users must seek authenticity. They should remember that social media is often a highlight reel and not the full story. Sharing real moments, both good and bad, can create real connections. As Brené Brown says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” All in all, embracing ourselves can encourage others to do the same.
Long-term, we need to remember that social media is part of a lie. It is a curated reality Ups and downs. As we scroll down our feeds, may we remember what really matters: real life, real connections.
Let’s embrace authenticity and find joy in our own journey.
