She Strengthens

Staying Grounded in a World of “Some Personal News”

As I scroll through my Twitter feed, I’m constantly bombarded with updates from the 970 accounts I follow. Many of them are creatives, sharing their latest projects and accomplishments. While it’s inspiring to see others succeed, it’s easy to feel like I’m stuck in neutral.

The Pressure to Keep Up

We’ve all seen it – the humblebrag tweet that starts with “some personal news.” A friend lands a dream job, someone gets engaged, or a writer scores a book deal. It’s natural to feel happy for them, but when everyone’s sharing their triumphs, it’s hard not to feel like I’m falling behind.

Regaining Perspective

To avoid getting caught up in the comparison game, I’ve developed a few strategies to keep things in perspective.

Looking to Late Bloomers

I find comfort in reading about successful people who didn’t find their footing until later in life. Vera Wang, J.K. Rowling, and Morgan Freeman are just a few examples of individuals who prove that it’s never too late to make a mark. Reminding myself that everyone struggles at some point helps me stay grounded.

Seeking Out Fresh Perspectives

Sometimes, all it takes is a conversation with someone who looks up to me to realize how far I’ve come. Talking to younger friends or colleagues can be a great way to gain a fresh perspective on my accomplishments.

Finding Balance

When work and social media start to feel overwhelming, I turn to hobbies to clear my head. Joining a women’s barbershop chorus has been a game-changer for me, providing a creative outlet and a sense of community.

Upskilling and Refocusing

If seeing others’ success has motivated you to make a change, but you’re not sure where to start, now’s the perfect time to explore new interests or improve your skills. Online courses and local classes can be a great way to dip your toes into a new field without making a drastic career shift.

Breaking Free from the Spiral

While these strategies aren’t foolproof, they’ve helped me navigate the feelings of inadequacy that can come with social media. By focusing on my own growth and accomplishments, I’m able to stay motivated and inspired, rather than getting caught up in the comparison game.