Do You Really Want It, or Just Want Others to See You Having It?


In a world where social media constantly feeds us curated glimpses of other people’s lives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison. From the latest fashion trends to romantic getaways, it’s tempting to covet what others seem to have. But here’s the real question: Do you actually want it, or do you just want to be seen having it?

The Social Media Mirage

Let’s face it: social media is a highlight reel. We see the best, the most polished versions of everyone’s lives—filtered, edited, and often far from reality. Yet, it’s easy to get caught up in the illusion. When we scroll through perfectly staged photos of luxury vacations, glowing relationships, and expensive bags, we often think: I need that too. But do we? Or are we simply chasing validation?

I’ll admit it—I’ve been there. The constant urge to keep up, to buy what everyone else has, or to prove my life is just as exciting. But when I take a break from social media, it’s like a fog lifts. The things I once obsessed over seem irrelevant, and I start to feel grateful for what I already have. Without the constant pressure of comparison, I realize: many of these desires weren’t even mine to begin with.

The Social Media Detox: A Game Changer

Every now and then, I completely unplug—deleting Instagram, disabling TikTok—and in those moments, I discover something powerful: my cravings for status symbols, like the latest designer bags or the perfect relationship, fade away. The truth hits me hard: I didn’t really want those things. I just wanted to show off that I had them.

For instance, I once fixated on owning a particular high-end handbag after seeing it everywhere on Instagram. It was the bag, the one that every influencer seemed to be wearing. But once I took a step back, I realized the bag didn’t even excite me anymore. It wasn’t the design or craftsmanship I was after—it was the idea of having something others would notice. The same thing happened with relationships. Scrolling through couple photos made me long for a romantic partner, but when I was offline, I realized: I wasn’t looking for love—I was looking to prove I could have it too.

Why Do We Care So Much?

So why do we crave things that we don’t even need or truly desire? Social media has conditioned us to tie our worth to external validation—likes, followers, comments, and the approval of others. The more we post, the more we’re rewarded with attention. It’s a dangerous cycle that feeds our insecurities.

When we base our happiness on what others think of us, we lose sight of what genuinely fulfills us. Ask yourself: Would you still want that new designer bag if no one knew you had it? Would you even go on that trip if there was no one to post it for? The truth is, many of our desires are fueled by the desire to impress—not to enjoy.

Using Social Media with Intention

Social media can be a powerful tool when used consciously. It can connect us, inspire us, and open us up to new ideas and experiences. But if you find yourself chasing trends or relationships for the sake of showing off, it’s time to hit pause.

Before you click “buy” on that latest item or schedule your next big trip, ask yourself: Is this something I truly want, or is it just for the ‘gram’? The answer might surprise you.

Remember, true happiness doesn’t come from external validation. It comes from within. So next time you scroll through your feed, take a moment to reflect: Am I living for myself, or for the approval of others?

Final Thoughts:

In a world where social media constantly beckons us to keep up, it’s easy to get caught in the trap of wanting things we don’t really need. If you find yourself constantly chasing the next trend or craving a life that looks good on paper, it’s time to check in with yourself. Take a step back. Reflect. And ask: Do I really want this, or am I just trying to impress someone?

Because at the end of the day, the only approval you truly need is your own.

By admin

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *