- Jo Paul Kiriyanthan
A young college student from Kochi loved posting pictures online, enjoying the appreciation that followed every posting. But slowly, posting became a silent hunt for recognition. One evening, after uploading a picture and watching others get more likes, self-doubt crept in. The post was deleted, not because it wasn’t good, but rather because it wasn’t noticed enough. She started to experience lack of confidence and absence of concentration in her studies and daily duties which led her to seek the help of a psychologist.
In today’s world, our self-esteem flickers with every notification. A single “like” makes one feel seen, while the lack of it may silently shake your confidence. Social media was created to connect us, but it has also turned into a silent stage where everyone performs for approval. We begin to measure our success, beauty, and happiness by the highlights others share-forgetting that real life is much more than what appears on a screen.
True confidence doesn’t come from being noticed; it comes from being authentic. It grows when we accept ourselves, not when others approve of us. Comparison steals joy because it makes us forget our own story. Indeed, someone else’s achievement doesn’t make ours smaller. The filtered perfection we see online doesn’t show the struggles, doubts, and imperfections that make us human.
Breaking free from the validation of social media starts with awareness. Let us ask ourselves: Why do I post? Is it to express or impress? Once we learn to share without seeking approval, we learn to regain control over our self-worth. Limiting screen time, experiencing more moments offline, and practicing gratitude can help rebuild inner confidence.
We can enjoy social media, but as a tool, not as a mirror. Celebrate others without questioning our own journey. Compliment without comparison. Again, confidence isn’t loud; it is calm. It doesn’t need followers; it needs self-trust. Actually, the most powerful “like” we will ever get is the one that we give to ourselves. When our confidence comes from within, no algorithm can take it away.
