Googles: “Social media bad habits.” 

Opening line: “Why are you really addicted to social media?”

*Slams computer screen shut.

Slowly, comes back.

Ok. I think I’m spending way too much time on social media. There, I said it. And it hasn’t really been helping. I feel scattered and distracted lately. I’m not focused on bettering myself or moving forward, but spend countless hours scrolling IG and comparing my life to someone else’s. Then, I feel as if I’ve failed already for not being as successful as they are.

It’s funny. Sometimes I have a firm grip on my social media habits and wrestle with it like a pro. Other times I slip up and take a punch to the gut. Hey, I’m human.

So why? Why am I actually consuming so much social media lately?

Social media is a total force, a sphere of inspiring content and it can spark a movement with just one post. Like everything there’s two-sides to it – social media can easily become a distraction. It’s where I get to put off tasks that give me anxiety. Things like writing, redecorating my apartment, planning upcoming travels, structuring expenses, scaling my business, nurturing my friendships, etc. Things I’m fully capable of doing (sans social media) but don’t because I want it to be perfect.

Someone once told me back in my ballet days when I was suffering from “perfectionism” (aka the need to be perfect) that, “perfection is the thief of joy.” And boy were they right. My week was ruined every time I had a bad rehearsal. Failure was painful. I allowed it to attack my joy and hold me back from the things that made me truly happy like dancing…because in my mind it had to be perfect. Who was giving me that pressure, but me?

Lightbulb.

So instead of focusing all my energy on why I felt (and still occasionally feel) the need to be perfect or post a “perfect” photo on social media, I’d rather share some goals I’m working on this year that will continue to add value every day. After all, this is “Life As I Know It” and I’m learning that those “picture-perfect” moments exist because of life’s beautiful imperfections.

–      Acknowledge the reason why you’re using social media so much.

–      Set your expectations. Remove perfection from the equation.

–      Put the phone down and replace scrolling with podcasts or audiobooks.

–      Fail. It’s going to happen. Embrace it. Learn from it.

–      And. Let. It. Go. Sing the freakin’ song if it helps.

Lol, and on a more lighthearted note, I’ve reorganized a few things around here including my website (check out the new #OOTD page!), my closet (coming to the blog soon), my style (same DNA just more me) and my intentions.

This year, I’ll be sharing a different side of me. Not all photos will be “perfect.” Sometimes they’ll be shot on an iPhone (gasp!). I’ll also talk more openly about the things that weigh heavily on my heart so that the content you’re seeing from me is adding value to your life… whether that be through beautiful imagery, a story, helpful styling tricks or a personal note about “Life As I Know It.” I promise this year will be different… 

Xo, Stephanie

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Blouse: Maje

Pants: Maje, also linked a similar pair on sale below

Earrings: Zimmerman

Sandals: old, similar options below

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[Shaye Babb Photography]

Thank you Kips Bay Palm Beach for the beautiful backdrop!