Keep Instagramming Your Life, We All Know It's Not Perfect

A while back, I read an article called Instagram's Envy Effect.  The author talked about how people present a perfect picture of their lives on social media and the negative effect this can have.  The article made some really great points, and I completely agree that we have to be very careful not to compare and envy other people's lives.  It's a wonderful article that's a great reminder to keep things in perspective.  If you haven't read it, you should check it out!

 

And while I completely agree with the author, I love seeing pictures of everyone'e beautiful moments.  It doesn't mean there aren't times when I feel like my life is much less exciting and glamorous than everyone else's, but that's when it's time for a reality check brought to me by one of my favorite quotes:

 

 

So, just in case social media has given you the false impression that my life is perfect, let me set the record straight now.  My life is far from perfect.  I make mistakes.  My kids throw temper tantrums.  My husband and I disagree.  My house gets messy.  And you generally won't see pictures of any of those things.  Why?  Because when my child is screaming at the top of his lungs in Walmart, I'm not thinking, "Ooh, let me take a picture of this so I can share it with everyone and make them feel better about their children."  Umm, no.  I'm dealing with the immediate problem.  But do we really think that because we don't see those behind the scenes moments that they don't happen? 

 

Let's not make social media a place where people feel guilty about sharing their beautfiul moments.  Coming from someone who has 90% of her loved ones and friends out of state, I love seeing everyone's adorable kids, exciting adventures, and wonderful memories.  After all, isn't that what photography's for?  To capture moments that we want to share and remember?  And, in twenty years when my babies are grown up and gone, I won't need a picture of their meltdowns to remember that they happened.  Believe me.  Some things you never forget. :) 

 

So, just keep capturing and sharing your life.  Period.  The good, the bad, the crazy, the beautiful.  And on the other end, when we're viewing pictures and status updates on social media, let's try to keep it all in perspective and be thankful for the life God has blessed us with! 

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!  Take lots of pictures! ;)