“Instead of scrolling through your feed, why not create something? Take the creativity you use for social games and turn it into something tangible—like a delicious homemade pie!” — Inspired by a popular sentiment.
Let’s kick off a new Facebook trend: Tag five people whose posts in your newsfeed spark a bit of envy. For example, I might say, “Today, I’m a bit envious of Maria for her trending article on her blog, of Mike who just aced his fitness goals, and of Sarah and Tom, who are enjoying a week-long getaway in Bali.”
The status update box often prompts us with “What’s on your mind?” This new meme would dig deeper, offering a glimpse into what truly resonates with us beyond our usual posts about weekend adventures or our latest culinary experiments. It’s an exercise in vulnerability, allowing us to connect on a more personal level. As Brené Brown wisely states, “We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known.”
The friends I tag can then pass it on, tagging three more of their own, creating a ripple effect that could go viral in no time.
Facebook keeps us in the loop about what our friends are up to—like when my high school buddy announces the arrival of their newborn or what my cousin had for dinner. And yes, the daily dose of inspirational quotes can be uplifting. Yet, it can also stir a sense of envy. Just last month, I saw Jake post a profound quote that received over 300 likes. Meanwhile, I can’t help but wish for just a fraction of that engagement when I share my thoughts. Then there’s Lisa, whose book was featured in a major publication. Why can’t my work get that kind of attention?
This new meme could be a form of therapy. It’s enlightening to realize that even those I envy—Maria, Mike, Sarah, Tom, Jake, and Lisa—might themselves be feeling envious of others. Imagine that: Mike, who seems to have it all figured out with his fitness routine, could be wishing for a new job or a better relationship.
Not that I’d revel in his discontent; rather, it’s a reminder that we all strive for more, and acknowledging this shared human experience can be grounding.
This concept works for two key reasons. First, recognizing that others, even those who appear to have what we desire, are also seeking more helps break the cycle of envy. It clarifies that true happiness isn’t about accumulating more possessions or experiences. Second, simply naming the feeling of envy diffuses its power. While I scroll through Facebook, envy can become my identity, but once I acknowledge it, I can separate myself from it and reclaim my sense of self. This deeper connection with my true self is where I feel the most fulfilled—even if I forget it from time to time, especially when lost in the endless scroll.
Research from Humboldt University in Berlin reveals that one in three individuals feels less satisfied with their lives after using Facebook. Those pesky vacation photos and comparisons regarding social interactions often lead to feelings of inadequacy. A study from Utah Valley University further supports this, showing that more Facebook time correlates with the belief that friends are living happier lives.
My meme idea could be particularly healing, as the Berlin study indicated that passive users—those who simply browse without engaging—are the most affected by these negative feelings. If we open up and share, it might shift our perspectives for the better.
I genuinely believe this could be a game changer. What do you think?
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In summary, the new Facebook meme invites us to confront our feelings of envy, recognize that we’re not alone in these emotions, and foster deeper connections with friends. Through this process, we might not only alleviate our envy but also cultivate a more meaningful online community.
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