She Strengthens

The Facade of Perfection on Social Media

We’ve all been guilty of it – scrolling through our social media feeds, comparing our lives to the seemingly perfect ones of others. But let’s be real, those highlight reels are often carefully curated to showcase only the best moments, hiding the imperfections and struggles that make us human.

I’m no exception. My online presence is a collection of exotic getaways, stunning scenery, and thrilling adventures. But what my followers don’t see is the reality behind the glamour. The truth is, my luxurious lifestyle is subsidized by relationships with wealthy older men.

It’s not prostitution, and I don’t receive direct payment. These men, often 20 or 30 years my senior, take me on lavish dates, fly me to exotic destinations, and shower me with gifts. In return, I offer them companionship, youth, and beauty. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement, but one that’s undeniably transactional.

I’ve had my fair share of these relationships, each with its own unique dynamic. There was Nicolas, the Italian businessman who paid my rent for an entire summer, allowing us to spend our days sailing the Mediterranean. Then there are my current beaus – one, a “home” boyfriend who takes me on romantic nights out in New York, and the other, a “vacation” boyfriend who flies me to Brussels every month.

Both of them are married, and I know that our relationships are temporary escapes from reality. I’m not naive; I understand that they’re using me to recapture their youth, just as I’m using them to live a life I couldn’t otherwise afford.

My ultimate goals are to increase my work hours, build my investments, and eventually return to school. I know that this lifestyle isn’t sustainable, and I’ll need to settle down eventually. But for now, I’m enjoying the luxury and freedom that these relationships provide.

The question is, would I ever reveal this secret to a potential partner? Probably not, given the judgment and criticism that would likely follow. But I don’t feel ashamed of my choices. In a society where youth and beauty are highly valued, I’m using my assets to get ahead. And if that means trading on my looks and charm, so be it.

Ultimately, social media is a facade, a carefully constructed illusion of perfection. But behind the screens, we’re all just trying to make the most of our lives, using the resources we have to create the existence we want.