I’ve always wondered how people in social media can just show their faces, act ridiculously, and live with themselves. Yes, for a lot of them, they get money but I like to think that one’s dignity is worth more.
Looking back, social media used to be this void where you can share your thoughts and it’s like telling everyone and no one. People were more real back then, unfiltered and raw. Nowadays, everything is curated and made perfect. Everything is a show and you cant trust what you see anymore.
But, more than ever, there is a huge cry for authenticity. People seem to interpret that as mot being afraid to act goofy or silly but is that really you or is that what you would like the world to believe to be you? Theres no telling anymore. To make matters worse, this facade has become such a normal thing that I’m afraid we dont really know our own selves anymore.
The picture above is of myself in a mask. I feel that this accurately depicts what is expected of us today. It’s still me in there, with my own thoughts and beliefs and uniqueness but there is this pressure to appear or come across a certain way. I wore the mask because I was afraid. I am afraid. Of being judged, or ridiculed, or not be liked. I am afraid that my authentic self cannot measure up to what society expects me to be. So I show up but I hide. I am experiencung the paradox of authenticity.
The paradox of authenticity refers to the tension that exists between the desire to be true to oneself and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. It is a complex and often conflicting dilemma that many individuals grapple with in their pursuit of personal identity and fulfillment.
On one hand, authenticity is highly valued in modern society. People are encouraged to be true to themselves, to express their unique qualities, and to live in alignment with their core values and beliefs. This emphasis on authenticity stems from the belief that it leads to greater happiness and fulfillment. When individuals are authentic, they are seen as genuine and trustworthy, and they often experience a sense of inner peace and harmony.
On the other hand, there is a constant pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations. Society has its own set of standards and ideals, and individuals are often judged and evaluated based on how well they adhere to these standards. This can create a conflict between the desire to be authentic and the fear of being judged or rejected by others. The paradox lies in the fact that in order to be accepted and valued by society, individuals may feel compelled to sacrifice their true selves and adopt a persona that is more socially acceptable.
This paradox becomes particularly evident in the age of social media, where individuals are constantly bombarded with images and narratives that promote a certain idealized version of authenticity. People are expected to curate their online presence in a way that portrays them as authentic and genuine, but this can often lead to a performance of authenticity rather than a true expression of self. The pressure to present a polished and curated image can be suffocating and can further exacerbate the paradox of authenticity.
Navigating the paradox of authenticity requires a delicate balance between staying true to oneself while also acknowledging and respecting the social contexts in which we exist. It involves self-reflection, introspection, and a willingness to question societal norms and expectations. It also requires cultivating a sense of self-acceptance and self-compassion, recognizing that authenticity is a journey rather than a destination. By embracing the paradox of authenticity, individuals can strive to live more authentic and fulfilling lives while also acknowledging the complexities and challenges that come with it.