I never thought I’d be one of those people who fell for The Comparison Trap on social media.
I guess it’s because of my cynical view of social media. Every since I took my very first social media break, I’ve looked at all of the social networks as very annoying if used excessively, and super negative. I hate preach-y (although I love inspirational) Facebook posts and Twitter rants and the overall negative and judgmental vibe that people on social media networks give off. I’ve started and deleted three twitter accounts, and created an entirely new Instagram account to get gossipy or sensational posts that activate my anxiety off of my feed. I can’t do away with social media completely because every job I’ve had since I’ve graduated focuses on social media heavily, so essentially, I treat it like a job, and it’s been working out well for me.
So, I guess you could say I’m kind of privy to the social media game. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a member of almost EVERY social network out there, and I do enjoy scrolling through them from time to time. But usually, I know that a lot of it is not real so I don’t feel bad or inadequate when I see someone’s picture perfect life in that little square. But lately, I have to admit, I have been falling for The Trap.
I think it’s because, over the past few months, I’ve been scrolling through social networks way more than usual. I’ve been dabbling in things that I said I wouldn’t anymore because of the unnecessary stress it brings: like live tweeting award shows, following whatever the latest crazy thing a politician says, and reading all of the comments that come after it. As a result, I’ve become upset when my faves don’t win awards, and frustrated at politicians saying things they shouldn’t. And I’ve been putting it all out there, on social media. But why?
