By: Jamie Rivers
This summer, my family embarked on a brief road trip, filled with good times spent with friends and relaxation. I took only a few photos, but as I flipped through social media, seeing others basking in their summer adventures, a familiar tug of envy hit me. Did our vacation even count if I didn’t have something Instagram-worthy to showcase?
Recently, I finally saw the musical Hamilton. Yes, I know, I’m late to the party! It was just as extraordinary as everyone claimed, but did it feel less thrilling because I didn’t have premium seats or backstage passes like a friend? Probably. And did it even count if I didn’t snap a selfie in front of the marquee? I don’t think so.
I’ll admit, I’m a bit of a social media junkie. I love scrolling through Facebook for news, cute photos of friends’ kids, and keeping in touch with family scattered across the globe. Social media can be fantastic, but it has its downsides.
The pressure to keep up with not just the Joneses, but the Smiths, Johnsons, and even that distant cousin we barely know, can be utterly draining. Our obsession with material goods and social standing has spiraled out of control. The relentless pursuit of “more” can be exhausting—especially influenced by social media.
As someone who aspires to a minimalist lifestyle, I find clutter incredibly stressful. I have no desire for a closet overflowing with shoes or a bathroom stocked with high-end beauty products. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with those things; social media has created a narrative that we should aspire to them. But that’s just not my reality.
My family makes do with one car, lives in a cozy (read: small and simple) home, and we all share the same bathroom. I value experiences over possessions. Too much stuff gives me anxiety, and clutter ignites my frustration.
Yet, one glance at social media has me craving things I don’t even want—a bigger house, chic décor, a remodeled kitchen, or an extravagant vacation. I know I don’t need these things, but the curated images of others’ lives can make my own seem dull. What I cherish most—meaningful relationships and community involvement—can feel inadequate when compared to trendy parties and perfect homes.
I can’t be the only one who feels this way, and while social media isn’t solely to blame, our innate tendency to compare ourselves to others can lead to discontent. Left unchecked, it breeds anxiety and a lingering sense of unease.
In a world where social media is omnipresent, it’s tough to resist the urge for “more.” It’s essential to focus on what truly matters to us, rather than what society deems important. For me, that means prioritizing strong relationships, volunteering, and creating lasting memories. If you find joy in decorating or baking, embrace it! Life’s too short to waste time on things that don’t bring happiness.
Navigating this challenge is ongoing, but I’ve picked up a few strategies to combat the urge to keep up. I constantly remind myself that I don’t want more possessions, despite what social media and advertisers suggest. I’m instilling in my children the value of people over things, ensuring our home feels welcoming—free from the anxiety of worrying about breaking expensive items.
I’m also learning to let go of my Type A tendencies for perfection and accept a bit of chaos. I communicate to family that we prefer experiences or time together over material gifts for birthdays and holidays. I frequently donate items we no longer need or use, and I remind myself that social media is merely a highlight reel—not the full story.
Sometimes, I even resist the temptation to share my highlight reel online. It’s okay if others don’t know about my latest Target haul or our new washer and dryer.
Above all, it’s about mastering the art of not being overly concerned with material possessions or social status. While social media has amplified our obsession with these things, we have the power to break free from it.
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Summary:
Our fixation on material possessions and social status is overwhelming in the age of social media. While it’s natural to compare ourselves to others, it’s crucial to focus on what truly matters. Prioritizing experiences and relationships over material goods can lead to greater satisfaction and happiness.