You’ve probably seen multiple social media posts that feature spotless houses or apartments, color-coded home lesson plans and baking projects that look like they’re the work of a pastry chef. And you may have wondered how people would have the energy and time to pull these off while facing the pandemic and navigating the daily stress related to it. More than likely, they don’t.
Many people believe projecting such an image will help themselves feel better. A professor of psychology with whom I recently spoke said that although bragging on social media might provide a boost at first, in the long term it doesn’t help. I’m not saying these perfect images of their lockdown lives are meant to create a fake online reality. But most people may be feeling the pressure to be perfect – or at least to appear to be perfect. Our image-conscious culture has been amplified by social media.
Perfectionists have unreasonable standards in their work lives and in other areas. Their self-worth often is based on achieving these standards, and any perceived errors are deemed to be failures. They frequently fail to feel pride even if they meet their goals. Under stress, they are inclined to depression and anxiety.
But in truth, we are all imperfect – and there is beauty in imperfection. So the next time you’re on social media, just be yourself. The response might surprise you. And resist the urge to call out those braggarts. We just want to be accepted with all our faults. Lots of people could use that acceptance right now.