Ohhhhhh social media. Where to even freakin’ begin? I’m going to start by saying that social media has changed our world in so many amazing, positive, and fun ways – news is spread faster, art is shared wider, awareness is circulated further, communication is quicker, business is built bigger, and creativity has no limits. It really has enhanced so many elements in our day-to-day lives and because of that, we are forever changed by it. 

For me, social media really is such a love-hate thing. People are often surprised when I say this because I know I use social media A LOT. Like, a lot a lot. Definitely more than the average person. I use Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, BeReal, and I even use it to promote this very blog that you’re reading right now. Social media is where I find so much of my inspiration and it’s also the place where I love to exercise my creativity. I can genuinely say that I thoroughly enjoy what I do on and with social media. To say I don’t know where I’d be without social media is a very bold (maybe dramatic) statement, but it’s true. Social media has become a part of me, and it’s probably become a part of you too. 

Perhaps another bold or dramatic statement by me, but I don’t see this as a problem. Our society has evolved in a way where social media has taken over in every single aspect, to the point where it’s hard to keep up with news, events, celebrations, trends, or even jobs without having it. It’s just a part of our world. Now just because I don’t see a problem with embracing and following social media, doesn’t mean I don’t see the true problems that come along with social media. Because TRUST ME…I most certainly do. 

Social media can be one of the most toxic, draining, and mentally debilitating environments we can put ourselves in. But that’s only if you let it. It’s so important to remember that social media is a highlight reel. I’m sure you’ve heard this term before in relation to social media, but it’s a good one to keep top of mind as you’re scrolling through Instagram on your lunch break. People only share what they want to share and what they want others to know. If you think about it, who really wants to share when they’re having a bad day? 

For example, they want to share their recent fabulous trip to Tahiti, the aesthetically pleasing açai bowl they had for breakfast, the brand new pair of drool-worthy Chanel loafers for fall, or their 6-month body transformation from working out. It all looks so amazing, right? That’s where that envy, desire, and pressure on yourself kicks in. Well what we don’t see is the food poisoning and bug bites they got on their trip, the McDonalds burger they had for lunch following their healthy morning, the months and months of saving to buy one pair of shoes that give them blisters, or the body dysmorphia they struggle with every single day. There are two sides to every single story or post and for our own mental health, it’s important to remember that. 

I think if we approach social media with an understanding that what we’re looking at is just one moment in time, it’s easier to digest. Just like the haunted houses around Halloween are much less scary when you enter knowing it’s not real. That’s not to say that some people actually do just live incredible, Insta-worthy lives because there are people out there that exist. Unfair, but true. And that’s also okay.  I’ll be the first to admit that I only share what I want to share and my life is very, very far from perfect. However, I feel that social media is slowly leaning into this concept that in fact no one is perfect, and sometimes watching an imperfect person being themselves is just as, if not more, inspiring than influencer content on a yacht in Greece. I think that’s really cool. 

The reason I wanted to make this blog post is because I sometimes catch myself going down this rabbit hole on social media of “ugh I want that” or “I want to look like that” or “they’re so lucky”. It’s a toxic, not-good feeling, right? As social media users & contributors, we have control on how we consume our content. Social media isn’t going away anytime soon so it’s crucial to look at these pictures, videos, and moments for what they are and remember that these are not their whole lives, but just highlights of their lives. Just like you & I. 

This post is just as much of a reminder for me as it is for anyone else that needs to hear this. So here’s to taking things you see online with a grain of salt, enjoying who and what you follow on social media, taking some pressure off yourself, and living your best imperfect life! ✨

Until next time…

Peace & love!

TL