Recently, I have become rather ambivalent about certain social media, or more specifically my behaviour towards it. Now, I don't 'do' Facebook, I've never looked at Twitter. I'm almost certainly too old for Snapchat and TikTok :) YouTube has it's advantages, but I rarely have the opportunity to sit and watch videos. Which leaves me with Instagram.
I began using the Instagram app way back in 2017 and I have always enjoyed it. There are so many pretty pictures to scroll through, and just as many images to scroll right past ;) It is so very quick and simple to post. I've found it fun, informative, and inspiring at times. I mainly follow outdoorsy folk who enjoy fell walking, and the app makes it simple to connect with and share ideas with others, which can be wonderful.
Lately, however, some of the individuals I originally began following for inspiration have morphed into influencers, who always seem to be affiliated with certain brands or promoting a new product. I have already unfollowed many for this reason, and yet I still find myself scrolling mindlessly through posts, or worse still, comparing myself unfavourably with those who somehow manage to have successful careers, as well as some sort of side hustle, an incredibly busy social life and an even more active social media.
This photo sharing app, which I began using as a bit of fun, has now become something which holds much less appeal for me. And I realise, I think I need to take a step back from it, for a little while at least.
I hope that from now on I will be spending more of my time on here, as for me it feels like the difference between waving a quick 'hello!' to someone or sitting down with friends, while enjoying a cup of tea and a good chat.
Photographs were taken last weekend, while on the waterfalls walk at Rydal Hall. Ironically, I was with a lovely group of people who I met though Instagram. Maybe there are some advantages to using it after all.
J. X
