Don’t Be Fooled By The Highlight Reel
In today's hyper-digital age, it's become increasingly challenging to discern between reality and the perfectly curated world of social media. Especially for the younger generation, this dichotomy can blur and warp their perception of success, hard work, and even self-worth. As parents and educators, how can we help kids navigate this tricky terrain?
Think of social media platforms as similar to a blockbuster movie’s promotional trailer. Just as movies don’t show every take, mistake, blooper or hours of line readings and practice sessions, social media often displays only the polished, exciting moments of someone's life, leaving out the challenges, doubts, and everyday monotony. Imagine scrolling through a movie's best scenes, completely bypassing the plot development, character arcs, and challenges. That’s precisely what happens with social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat often present a life of continuous adventures, achievements, and celebrations. This is why it’s important to not be fooled by life’s “Highlight Reel”, rather place emphasis on the effort that is not seen by others, as this is what will ultimately separate you from the rest.
For this reason it is imperative we support young people to differentiate between reality and the deception digital platforms can create. Not sure where to start? Here are some prompts to start a conversation.
Realistic Expectations
Everyone, no matter how perfect their life appears online, faces challenges and setbacks. Those glittering moments online might be only 5% of someone's actual life. When you see a friend’s vacation photos or someone's achievement post, remember there’s a larger context. Perhaps they saved up for years for that trip or faced countless rejections before achieving their goal.
The Comparison Trap
Social media can sometimes feel like a race. When everyone is posting their best moments, it can lead you to compare and feel as if you're falling behind. But remember, you're comparing your behind-the-scenes to their highlight reel. If you believe everyone else is always happy and successful, you might feel isolated in your struggles. It’s essential to speak about your feelings and remember that it's okay not to be okay.
The Iceberg Illusion
Consider success as an iceberg. What you see on the surface (the success) is only a small part. Beneath the water lies persistence, failures, hard work, and dedication that the world often doesn’t see. Rather than just the outcome, celebrate the hours of practice, the resilience in facing rejection, and the determination to keep going. These are often more valuable than the end result.
Your Own Unique Journey
Instead of getting entangled in others’ narratives, concentrate on crafting your own story. Each person's path is unique, and comparing can rob you of recognising your own potential. By valuing your unseen efforts and the subtle progressions, you can find a deeper sense of contentment. This intrinsic satisfaction can serve as a driving force, propelling you further in your endeavours than external validation ever could.
In an age where everything is seemingly picture-perfect, let's arm our children with the vision to see beyond the frame. When they learn to value the unseen efforts, setbacks, and the satisfaction of hard work, they're not just better equipped to face the world but also to find contentment and joy in their unique journeys.
Practical Applications
That Value Unseen Effort over social media glorification
Digital Detox Day
Description: Designate a day or a few hours every week where students and family members disconnect from all electronic devices, especially social media. Use this time to engage in real-world activities like board games, nature walks, or art projects.
Purpose: This provides a regular break from the constant stream of highlight reels, giving kids a chance to live in the moment and appreciate the world around them.
Behind-the-Scenes Project
Description: Ask students to pick a personal achievement (e.g., learning to play a song on an instrument or mastering a new sport move) and document not just the final success but all the failures, practice sessions, and frustrations along the way.
Purpose: By visually capturing their journey, kids learn to appreciate the process and understand that setbacks and hard work are integral parts of success.
Social Media Reality Check
Description: Periodically, hold open discussions or Q&A sessions where students can talk about things they've seen on social media and express their feelings. Parents or educators can then provide context or share personal experiences related to the topic.
Purpose: Creating a safe space for discussions can help debunk myths and reduce the pressure kids feel from online portrayals.
Role Model Stories
Description: Share stories or documentaries about celebrities, athletes, or historical figures that highlight their struggles, not just their successes. This can be done through reading sessions, movie days, or guest speakers.
Purpose: By showcasing that even the most successful individuals faced hardships and failures, kids will understand that everyone has their behind-the-scenes moments, irrespective of their fame.
Real-life Achievement Board:
Description: Create a board in a classroom or home where kids can pin up not just their achievements, but also the steps they took to get there, including challenges faced. The emphasis should be on the journey, not just the end result.
Purpose: Visualizing and celebrating the entire process, not just the highlight, can instill a deeper appreciation for hard work and persistence. This also encourages a supportive community where everyone learns to value and respect each other's efforts.
In an age where everything is seemingly picture-perfect, let's arm our children with the vision to see beyond the frame. When they learn to value the unseen efforts, setbacks, and the satisfaction of hard work, they're not just better equipped to face the world but also to find contentment and joy in their unique journeys.
