I’m not opposed to social media. Blogging and style are two of my passions, so I post regularly on various platforms. However, the misuse of technology, the perception of others’ lives, and personal comparisons can negatively impact relationships and self-perceptions over time.
First of all, social media photos are usually happy moments in people’s lives, not necessarily the norm. For some, there may be many, but not for others.
Only those behind closed doors know what goes on behind them. Many people allow these images to make them feel as if they aren’t living the same life as others. This can lead to a person feeling they lack the right relationship or money to do what others do.
Mirrors show two faces. There is no guarantee that the reflection you see is the true image on the other side. There may be issues between couples, family dynamics may be turbulent, some people may seek external attention, or vacations may be an escape from reality.
I am sure that many posts express happiness and a desire to share happy moments with loved ones. I do not mean to imply that every post is false. What I’m trying to say is that these images may not accurately represent their daily lives.
For example, a person who constantly parties may be lonely and not have a partner to spend time with. It is possible that a happy marriage is in trouble, and someone is trying to save face. There have been couples I’ve been around who seemed to have the happiest relationships; they ate out frequently, went on vacations, and attended parties and events with smiles on their faces only to announce their divorce years later. Photos don’t tell the whole story!
Social media should not be used as a comparison tool for your life. Consider taking action if things in your life aren’t working out as you expected. You are no less than those you follow on social media. Don’t get influenced by what others’ lives look like through a photo or feel uncertain about your own direction. Take pleasure in other people’s moments.Being able to share those moments with the people you care about can bring you joy.
Facebook, in particular, has become a platform for attacks and indirect messages. I’ll write about that in my next blog…