I started writing this post in July 2018. Twelve months later I still feel the same way so I thought I would publish it…
I have been quiet on Instagram lately for two reasons. Firstly I am avoiding temptations as part of my impulse shopping ban. Have you noticed that Instagram is turning into one big sale catalogue? It is very easy to press purchase at 3am in moments of frustration when you should be sleeping! Secondly, I have emerged from the Instagram bubble of how I thought my life should “look”. To be completely honest, I am sick of scrolling through images of minimalist Scandi-style home offices and essential oils arranged by colour in wooden bowls. Whilst I have the upmost respect for women who run their own businesses or network marketing ventures, I am done coveting the so-called “freedom lifestyle” that is synonymous with working for yourself. It’s certainly not my reality and I am bored with trying to replicate it. Dare I say that the dream life depicted in those beautifully styled squares is BS?
What has prompted my change in view? Firstly, being on maternity leave and spending time at home away from my career has made me realise that I enjoy what I do. Yes I work hard, but I am rewarded for it. I would not have been in a position to take a year off work without the support of my employer. You certainly don’t have this luxury when working for yourself. There is no way I would earn the same amount of money pursuing a passion from my laptop whilst sipping on an almond milk flat white at my local cafe. I have no doubt that my friends in network marketing work bloody hard to be as “successful”. Much harder than Instagram lets on in any case.
Secondly, I received some great advice from two of my mentors, which made it clear that I already am what it takes to achieve my “ideal” career and life. Initially I worked with my career mentor, Kellie Tomney, to understand my unique qualities and skills so that I could show up as my whole self in my career. It did wonders for my confidence and impact at work. If you would like to hear more about my career journey, I would encourage you to visit Kellie’s website and watch our interview series (Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3).
I have also been part of a mastermind group run by Katie Lee, who I have mentioned in previous posts as the inspiration behind my “breaking free from busy” journey. Katie has helped me to realise that I don’t need to consume any more self-help courses and books in order to create my dream life. They are a waste of my money and energy. She also reminded me that Instagram creates a false depiction of what life should look like. This has helped me to stop craving what others have and shift the focus back to my core values. Those values include stability for my family, financial security and enjoying simple pleasures in life such as coffee and yearly holidays to Bali. I am not sure how pretty this will look on Instagram but who cares!!
My opinion might be a little controversial but I know a lot of people are starting to feel the same way about social media. I hope my story encourages you to observe your reactions to photos on Instagram. Are you triggered by images that depict your so-called “dream-life”? If so, ask yourself “what am I really seeking?”
I doubt it can be neatly captured in a pretty little square photo.
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