Blurred Lines

 

By Alexa Sy and Kina Velasco, Year 11

Recently, Instagram sensation Essena O’Neill shut down all of her social media accounts, declaring that social media was “fake”. With over five hundred thousand followers, O’Neill was making fast cash through her constant posting; 2000AUD was considered easy for one post. Apart from arguing that the existence of social media is the sole cause for self-esteem issues, she admitted that, in each Instagram post, she was pervading this idea of perfection consumed her. O’Neill later began editing a number of her photo captions to revealing the appalling truth behind them. She also posted a final video, warranting her elimination of all forms of social media.

After having watched her video ourselves, it was undeniable that many of the issues she had mentioned concerning social media were remarkably authentic and justifiable, including the immense pressure to look nothing less than #flawless. We know a number of people who are willing to take time out of their day to take photos for the sole purpose of Instagram. However, at the same time, it is unfair to call the entirety of social media “fake”, as not everyone in the online community is preoccupied by the number of followers, likes and desire to be perceived as perfect through a mere screen.

Since its beginnings in Friendster, MySpace and Multiply, social media has emerged as much more than a communal platform. The evolution of game-changers like Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat has led to its surge in popularity and the expansion of user demographics that have transformed it into a launch pad for e-commerce, a tool for digital marketing and, for some of its users, an online portrayal of their hyper-idealised selves. What we fail to realise is that behind every photo, every snapchat, and every video lies an untold story; a snippet of a larger picture masking a hidden truth.  

A key idea that we believe should be followed is to not only enjoy the act of taking photos for social media, but to also enjoy the photographed experience itself. Although social media can be vicious and attack our self-esteem, it can also be a place of positivity and authenticity. It acts as a creative outlet for many and allows us to express our artistry on a different medium. However, in the end, it is our prerogative to be as sincere with what we post on social media. If we choose to sacrifice our well being for the sake of our online persona, how can balance be maintained?

Wellbeing is defined as the state of being comfortable, happy and healthy. If a balance between your online persona your real life is preserved - thus leading to a much more enjoyable, healthy lifestyle then well being is too, achieved.

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