The Moment I Realised Social Media Had Me
It happened last week as I recovered from a bout of flu. I was sitting on our lounge, coffee in hand, still in my pyjamas, and suddenly I realised I’d spent 20 minutes watching someone in Canada renovate their laundry. I don’t know them. I don’t even like laundry. And yet there I was, emotionally invested in their grout choices and before-and-after tiles.

That’s when it hit me: social media had pulled me in again. Quietly, cleverly.

The Love–Hate Relationship with Social Media
There’s a lot to love about it, of course. Cat videos, clever memes, family updates, and the occasional post that genuinely lift my spirits. However, it can also sneak into our head and slowly chip away at our self-worth. One moment you’re checking the forecast, and the next you’re wondering why you’re not doing Pilates at sunrise or drinking smoothies that cost more than a weekly fruit shop.

And let’s be honest—most of us have been there.

The Quiet Sting of Comparison
It’s that subtle sting of comparison that creeps in when someone posts their fourth holiday this year, and you’re just trying to stay on top of the laundry and figure out what’s for dinner. It’s a quiet voice that says, “maybe I’m not doing enough”. Here is the truth though: that voice isn’t yours—and it’s not telling the truth.

Setting Boundaries That Protect Your Peace
This is where boundaries come in. Not big dramatic ones—just calm, thoughtful choices that protect our peace. I started by keeping my phone out of the bedroom. No more midnight scrolling. I wait until after my morning cuppa before checking any apps or emails. I regularly unfollow or mute accounts that leave me feeling a bit flat. Not because there’s anything wrong with them—but because I deserve to feel good in my own skin.

Mindful, Not Extreme
For me being mindful about social media isn’t about deleting every app and going off-grid. It’s about tuning in. Asking, “How does this make me feel?” If the answer is anxious, inadequate or just plain drained—it’s a sign to take a step back.

Letting Go of the Productivity Pressure
And while we’re here, can we let go of the pressure to be endlessly productive? You don’t need to be building an empire, colour-coding your pantry and running a marathon all before lunch. Some days, showing up and doing your best is more than enough.

A Simple Reminder
So next time you catch yourself deep in someone else’s highlight reel, take a breath. Ground yourself. Maybe even say this out loud:

“I am enough. Even without perfectly curated content.”

We are actually enough, we are doing our best, learning as we go. We don’t need a filter—or an online following—to be valuable. We just need to be kind to ourselves.