Behind Social Media: How to Not Compare Your Life to Someone Else’s ‘Story’

by | Jun 7, 2024 | health tips | 0 comments

cover photo behind social media how to not compare your life to someone elses story

When social media platforms were first developed, no one could have pictured the growth and influence they would have on our everyday lives. Pew Research Center estimates that 70% of Americans use some form of social media for connection and entertainment. Access to information and content has drastically changed how we gather information and how companies and businesses provide information to consumers. But has the initial purpose of staying connected been maintained?

Consider all of us vulnerable to the reality that is “comparison.” We have all been there. With someone else’s highlight reel at your fingertips, reality can easily feel clouded. When all we see in front of us is fun or attractive things, ideas, and portrayals, we can fall into the trap of comparison, like:
 

“So and so is on an adventure trip to New Zealand and I am here at my desk swamped with deadlines.”

 

 

“I can’t believe their lives look so simple with kids. I struggle daily being a parent just getting my kids out the door. Must be nice!”

 

 

“Those jeans look so good on her, I could never pull something like that off.”

 

scrolling through social media
When these thoughts occur, it is important to remember a few boundaries and realities when it comes to what we see and perceive from social media. First being, there is probably another side to the story. Sure, your old friend from high school who you haven’t talked to in a decade seems to have the perfect life, portraying all the highs. Realistically though, they aren’t without the lows. Remind yourself that everyone struggles, and no one is perfect, whether they showcase it or keep it to themselves. What you see on your feeds is not the absolute truth.
social media applications

As it relates to editing and Photoshop, there is an epidemic. In 2021, 90% of young women reported editing their photos or using a filter on social media posts1. A study in BMC psychology showed that photo editing negatively influences self-esteem not just for those who see these photos, but also for those who partake in the photo editing2. We can build healthy boundaries with our use of social media to protect ourselves if we want to minimize the temptation of comparison.

social media versus real life
Comb through your feed, if anything is eliciting negative feelings, click the unfollow button. Set app limits so you don’t fall doomed to endless scrolling or algorithms. If you need to take a break altogether, go ahead and do so! You don’t have to participate in something that isn’t fruitful for your well-being. Remember that social media is a tool, not a punishment that you can have control over how it is used in your personal life!
KELLY MYERS

KELLY MYERS

MS, RD, LDN

Kelly is a Licensed and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a passion for helping individuals and families. She completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition from…READ MORE

Sources:

  1. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210308111852.htm
  2. https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40359-023-01143-0

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