If you don’t post it on social media, did it really happen?
It’s a silly question. But it’s one that the unconscious-ego of many people ask on a daily basis. Especially those of us that grew up in a generation that came to age alongside social media.
Social media has tricked us into seeking validation and recognition at every moment of our everyday life.
- Going for a run? Post it on social media.
- Eating a nice dinner? Post it on social media.
- Seeing a concert? Post it on social media.
- Having an alcoholic beverage? Post it on social media.
- Doing anything that might get you some likes? Post it on social media.
It’s not that your direct intentions are to stroke your ego… but the reality is that these types of posts are rooted in validation. You want other people to know what great things are happening in your life.
Experiences For You
So instead of trying to post every fun, cool, impressive, etc., experience that is happening in your life, try living the experience just for you.
Allow yourself to enjoy every moment for what it is – a moment. Whether you are by yourself, or with others, truly be present in the experience. Don’t concern yourself with collecting “likes”.
But… what do I even DO with the thousands of photos I take of my kids? Surely EVERYONE needs to see them?? Hah. I’m only sort of joking…
I have my Instagram account hooked up to a service that automatically prints photo books for me, but I’ve also marked my account private so I know I am only sharing these photos with the people I know and care about. That’s my compromise, I think.
I keep my accounts private too! Seems like a good balance.
Although I’ve found sharing my family photos on Google Photos to work really well.
OF COURSE everyone wants to see your kids Brittany!
I do think that having a private account on the gram makes it much better. I also think that sharing family pictures, at an appropriate frequency, is a nice way to share those pictures withs friends and family.
Very well put! For the longest time I removed myself from all social media outlets and admittedly would think a certain way about those who posted every second of their lives (which I’m in no place to judge). Lately though, as growing my business has become more of a priority I’ve caught myself seeking validation and recognition just like you mentioned. I’ve learned to use social media outlets as a tool and simply an extension of my business. By approaching it this way my top priority is helping others and thinking less about validation and recognition. Great post!
Thanks for sharing Lorenzo. I like that description: “an extension of..”.
I think that social media can be used appropriately when you see it as an extension of how you communicate with others. If it’s another way you share pictures of your life, relevant news, etc.
That said, because of how nearly all social media platforms are designed to build engagement/addiction, there are probably only a small minority of users who can maintain a healthy mindset with social media usage.