Between Words and Distractions

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Between Words and Distractions

Between Words and Distractions:
Share The Wild Side

I’ve been on a reflective journey lately, missing the days when I truly enjoyed writing. I don’t know where that part of me went. I still write occasionally, but only in short bursts. I know it’s still within me because I’ve been meaning to turn all my previous posts into a book. After all, I truly loved how the words I put out to the world made me feel.

As I’ve grown, I’ve become more self-conscious about my writing, and I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s because, at one point in life, someone told me my writing was terrible – I really would have not listened but then I believe I was extremely and unnecessarily vulnerable – it was a while back though, thankfully. But whenever I look back at everything I’ve written, I realize just how good I was.

Another reason might be that I’m on a completely different path now—a new season in my creative journey. It’s not that I’m not creating; I’m just doing it differently. And then there’s today’s world of distractions—social media, Netflix, and so many other outlets competing for my attention. I understand now why many authors take sabbaticals or seek fellowships to finish their books. It’s not as easy to focus with everything going on.

It’s not just entertainment; it’s the constant flow of news and the demands of everyday life. It feels like an endless stream of distractions. As I write this, I hope that one day it will all make sense, and whatever is unsettling me now will not matter then.

The Social in Social Media

Social media can feel overwhelming at times. One minute, you’re scrolling and questioning what’s missing in your life. The constant stream of achievements and picture-perfect moments makes it seem like everyone else is doing something extraordinary. It’s easy to forget that everyone has different goals and timelines. Still, the noise can be deafening—like everyone is shouting about their success.

Then I remember: it’s all a game – and I have been a part of the game. Social media thrives on keeping us posting, sharing, and comparing, yet comparison is the thief of joy. But there’s no need to put unnecessary pressure on yourself. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough. The key is to stay focused on your goals and not let the online life – or as it is said – the online front face value – distract you.

Lately, I’ve been overthinking whether to post on social media many times – not once – not twice – I have so many drafts still waiting to see the world. It’s frustrating because it shouldn’t be so hard. Posting should be simple—just sharing my thoughts, being myself, and doing my best. Yet, as a digital media strategist, I tend to overanalyze everything, which takes the fun out of it.

Social media has given me incredible opportunities since I started sharing my conservation journey and stories seriously back in 2016. But as my life and career evolve, I’ve set higher expectations for myself. I want to share more of my photography and filmmaking (where I’m building my over 10,000 hours of craft) work but often feel like I don’t have enough to post. Deep down, I know that’s not what matters.

What matters is authenticity. The beauty of social media lies in sharing what feels meaningful to you. Overthinking kills that joy. Platforms like Instagram, with its polished aesthetics, and LinkedIn, with its constant stream of achievements, add to the pressure – and many times I fail to also post. I find solace in X (formerly Twitter), where I can simply express myself in a few words without much effort.

Many times I am in awe of those who post on a regular. Being consistent takes some level of strength and discipline. Always being on top of your game. Sometimes just sharing your daily life without any shame and letting it take its course without overthinking.

As I immerse myself in books and films, I often reflect on how none of this—the likes, comments, or shares—will matter in the long run. What will matter is how it made me feel and the connections I built.

So here’s my takeaway

Post what makes you happy. Share your journey in your way. Don’t let the pressure of perfection or comparison weigh you down. Social media is a tool, not a measure of your worth. Focus on what fulfils you, both online and offline.

The fascination with self in this social media era is intriguing. It often makes you pause and reflect before posting. What’s the point of it all—sharing, talking, and engaging? The very act of storytelling feels like a story in itself.

I sometimes wonder why we do this. Perhaps it’s because, as social beings, connecting and expressing ourselves feels natural. But at times, it all feels overwhelming—like it’s just too much.

No ending just growth. It’s a continuous journey. It doesn’t stop. Every day is all about rediscovering yourself, relearning, appreciating yourself and being more kind as life unfolds.

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