This post was originally sent to my private email list on September 18th, 2022.
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Everybody says social media is a “highlight reel,” and I don’t disagree.
But thanks to the sheer volume of posts we see on a daily basis, it’s easy to lose sight of this, and what goes on behind the scenes.
Take, for example, the Reels I’ve been posting on Instagram—which tend to get great feedback.
Every month, thousands of people watch, “like,” and comment on them.
But not one of these people sees this:
You’re looking at 25+ outtakes, where I stuttered, lost my train of thought, or swore out of frustration.
Only seven videos made it to my videographer.
Meaning I botched 80% of my takes.
Here are some other examples of what you see—and don’t see—on social media:
- You see a model with “perfect skin.” You don’t see their make-up artists or expensive editing software
- You see somebody lose 20+ pounds during a 30 day challenge. You don’t see their horrible relationship with food or binge eating episodes after the challenge is over
- You see an influencer with your “dream life.” You don’t see their crippling social anxiety or credit card debt
- You see a personal trainer with the “arms you want.” You don’t see all the memories they’ve missed out on to stick to their rigid diet
The list goes on.
I share this with you not to be a downer, but to remind you that social media lacks context.
You’re probably doing better than you think, and the people you’re comparing yourself to probably aren’t.
Sam
P.S. If you’re interested in watching the Reels that made the cut, you can check them out here.
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