Why do I post the results of my most recent race?
Why does a new parent post something that virtually all new parents invariably do, yet act like they’re the first?
Why do we wish our loved ones public happy birthday’s on social media instead of just telling them in person?
Why does a new bride post 50 bridals when the best 4-5 would do?
Why does someone take a selfie with their luxury brand bag or fancy restaurant menu in the background?
**STATUS**
[Photo by William Iven on Unsplash]
One of the smartest and astute cultural observers I know, Seth Godin, says, “Most of our energy, money and time goes into grooming ourselves into the status role where we believe we belong. Status has no real value. It’s in our head – the story we’re telling ourselves about our worth.”
Status and Social Media
And, the digital world, (Instagram, Facebook, et al.) makes it easier to play the game… To stick out our chests out and preen; to showcase our status and to humble brag that we’re a little better than someone else.
Look, it’s nice to publicly recognize people we care about. And, it’s nice to share our lives with others who we don’t see frequently. Hell, it is fine to get some positive affirmation for our accolades now and then. Certainly, all of these things are preferable to doom and gloom.
This is just a friendly reminder that you don’t *have* to play this game.
And, if you’re going to play now and then, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons and that the right biochemical (serotonin) is driving your behavior and not the narcissistic dopamine rush that comes with all those likes and comments.
[If you’re constantly looking at your phone, alternating between your post on Insta and FB to see who liked and commented, you’re doing it wrong.]
*This post was inspired by the 2nd episode, “Status Roles” of Seth Godin’s new podcast, Akimbo.
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