More aspirational than relatable, we measure our humdrum lives against the jet-set faux realities of the Insta-famous.
The real problem is not that all this comparison can drag us down, making us feel inferior instead of inspired.
It's that our own glow - our sparkle - becomes dull. Those that should be lifted by our life-light find it dimmed instead.
Truth is, you - yes, the friend, partner, mum or dad, student, young/old, regular you - are an influencer. Even if you don't realise it, you touch the lives of multiple people every day.
The average person influences anywhere from 150 people (
What if we were intentional about projecting our authentic selves to those around us? What if, instead of trying to be a second-rate copy of someone else's unattainable standard, you were really YOU?
Being really you - refreshingly honest, with no masks - is the best gift you can give to yourself and the world. And it sure takes a lot less energy and angst than the alternative.
Are you ready to polish off your own 'sparkle' and get ready to reflect your own talents to the world? Try the following this week:
- Embark on a digital detox. That's right: no Facebook, Youtube, Snapchat, celebrity blogs, or Instagram. By turning off the stream of other's 'perfect' lives, it's easier to reconnect with our own. Like a regular food/health detox, it doesn't have to be forever, but the benefits you'll feel might even persuade you to stretch it out a little longer ;).
- Make a date - or two - with yourself. All that extra time freed up from not being online (see the tip above) will give you a chance to sit down with a coffee and journal - or take a stroll in nature - and reconnect with your goals, strengths, and dreams. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What did I used to love doing that I now no longer make time to regularly do?
- What brings me a feeling of joy?
- If there were no bills to pay, what would I spend my time doing?
3. Think about the people around you who you influence e.g. partner, children, workmates, friends, neighbours). Practice being totally present when you're with these people - that may mean putting the device away or turning off the TV more often - and allowing them the privilege of sharing an authentic moment of connection.
You have so much to offer.
What are you waiting for?
If you try any of the tips above, I'd love to hear how you're going, either in the comments below or on my Facebook page.