Admit it- we’re all victims to scrolling through Instagram late at night when we can’t sleep or mindlessly looking at twitter to kill time in our ridiculously boring Chemistry lecture. Social media, whether we want to believe it or not, is a constant part of our lives. Don’t get me wrong, social media is fun, can be inspiring, and allows us to have a creative outlet, but it’s almost inevitable that we will start comparing ourselves to others with each swipe of a thumb.
It’s basically social comparison on a whole new level.
You see, the problem is that we compare our behind-the-scene lives with other people’s highlight reels. The minute we step out of reality and dive into social media, everyone’s lives instantly become more fun and interesting compared to ours: FOMO at its finest. That’s the beauty of social media- we can choose what we want to hide and what we want people to see. We can create this “better” version of ourselves with the tap of an Instagram filter. We can portray ourselves however we want on Twitter. We create these exciting online personas and hide the boring details of our lives. And who can blame us? We are all guilty of wanting to share our most beautiful and exciting moments with the social media world. Finally it’s our turn to be envied with each “like” or comment we get on our posts. But think about it, is all of the comparing worth feeling unhappy and jealous?
We are so much more complex than just 140 characters or a picture with a filter thrown on it. But the harsh truth is: sometimes life can be a bit boring. And you know what? That’s okay. It takes a little boredom here and there to really appreciate the fun and exciting moments that life has to offer. What I’m trying to say here is this: appreciate your life for what it is and stop doubting your success. It’s true that we are the most critical of ourselves, but comparing ourselves to others is always going to be a losing battle. Don’t be ashamed of your occasional 8 hour long Netflix marathons instead of going out on Dickson Street. Don’t be envious of your friend’s amazing pictures on Facebook of her week-long vacation in the Bahamas while you’re on the way to the grocery store in 12 degree weather.
Enjoy life for what it is, and be grateful for all the exciting times that you do have! After all, we’re in college. We’re young. We learn lessons—good and bad. Love yourself and the life you lead. Most importantly, learn to be happy for other people.