Scrolling Facebook is like standing in a room full of promotional posters and trophies and works of art. It’s unlike any space we have in our primary reality.
This is a room for you and everyone you’ve ever met. Each person has their own section. If you do not contribute new pieces, your section shrinks. The only requirements for gaining a position of power is a.) to frame stuff in a way that appeals to the most possible people and b.) to make lots of stuff.
Well, what a cool place—everyone gets to celebrate themselves.
What this means is that success is more in our own hands than ever before.
And I think this is why most profile pictures are from photo shoots and most announcements are about acceptances. I must retain my image as desirable. I am stronger if I seem enviable.
And yet we use it to keep our minds occupied and feel connected.
I don’t feel good after scrolling Facebook for more than five minutes. Or after I've posted something and haven't seen any reactions yet. It doesn’t really make me feel better if lots of people “like” something… all those likes could just as easily be judgments!
So I want to use my Facebook to show you the truth behind the white lies social media can tell you:
1. The profile picture
The illusion: I always look put-together and I am important enough have up-to-date, beautiful photos of myself.
The reality: Most days I wear no makeup and New Balance sneakers. This photo was taken while filming a theme song for my Dungeons & Dragons campaign.
2. The cover photo
The impression: I’m super successful in my Drama major. I get cast in important shows all the time.
The full story: This is my first official UW play after lots of rejections. My part is small.
3. The timeline
The snapshot: I've already started my writing career. I have a perfect relationship. And 870 people who like me.
The full picture: I am so uncomfortable and self-doubting every time an article goes live. My relationship is great right now but we're young and anything could happen. And at least 700 of those people don't care that much about me.
Remember the layers behind the posts. We are all just trying to matter to each other. Most people seem perfect because they are sharing the most important aspects of their lives. It’s not natural to share the uncertainty, awkwardness, and ugliness. Although I wonder how we all might benefit if we did.
