By Natalie Sevon Posted December 20, 2024
Have you ever used a filter when posting a picture of yourself? Or posed a certain way so your body would look better? Many more people have than they’d like to admit.
Social media is a great way to express yourself and show people what you are interested in. Oftentimes, this is used for good, but there are circumstances where influencers or regular people can make themselves look better or more impressive than reality.
Influencers and celebrities such as the Kardashians are known for setting unrealistic standards and expectations that can make young girls insecure. Some believe those girls should “ignore it” but how could they? These unrealistic standards are everywhere for people to see.
Although influencers faking their persona harms viewers, it is not unusual. If the spotlight was constantly on you, wouldn’t you want people to think you were attractive or interesting? Often people judge these influencers for being someone they are not but if they were put in the same situation they’d more than likely behave similarly.
Regular people around you could be faking who they are too. Don’t people do this in person daily, who just puts it all out there? Whether it’s makeup or how we dress to fit certain expectations, it’s all fake to an extent, isn’t it? Just because someone doesn’t have a big platform, it doesn’t automatically mean they aren’t faking who they are to appear cool to their peers. Almost everyone cares about how they appear online and how others view them, which can cause them to exaggerate who they are online to make their lives seem more appealing.
This is why it is important to remember not everything posted is real. Whether it’s a cute selfie or a funny video, it could always be exaggerated or even staged. Remind yourself that it’s okay to not look like your favorite influencers because they probably don’t look like that either!
Comparison is the thief of joy so remember to think about yourself before anyone else. Be who you are, it’s never okay to fake your persona on social media. When you feel the need to do so just remember how it encourages people to compare themselves and how that would make you feel.
