INICIO | ESTILO Y VIDA
ESTILO Y VIDA

Living in the moment: escaping the false reality of social media and easy success

Por: Iván Antonio Infante
Stratega Consultores
ivan.antonio@strategamagazine.com

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In today’s hyper connected world, people are spending more time online than ever before. Social media platforms, streaming services, and endless notifications have created a constant flow of information and entertainment, shaping the way we perceive ourselves and others. While technology has brought undeniable benefits, it has also fostered a dangerous illusion of reality—one where success happens overnight, happiness is portrayed as effortless, and everyone seems to be living a perfect life. As a result, many people have drifted away from living in the present moment, trapped in a digital world that encourages comparison, dissatisfaction, and unrealistic expectations. To live a truly fulfilling life, we must break free from this false reality and embrace the authenticity of personal experiences, genuine achievements, and meaningful human connections.

Social media has a central role in shaping a distorted perception of life. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook encourage people to showcase carefully curated highlights of their lives: exotic vacations, luxury purchases, flattering selfies, and seemingly constant success. Yet these portrayals rarely reflect reality. Behind every perfect photo or video lies a complex, unfiltered life that is often hidden from public view. This constant barrage of images erodes self-worth, trapping people in cycles of anxiety, depression, and an unshakable fear of missing out.

In their effort to capture the perfect photo or curate an ideal online persona, many forget to truly experience life as it unfolds. They may attend concerts, travel to breathtaking places, or spend time with friends, yet remain consumed with documenting and sharing these moments to compete in an invisible race for likes, comments, and followers. In the process, memories are overshadowed by appearances, and genuine happiness is replaced by the relentless pursuit of external approval.

Another damaging consequence of this false reality is the rising expectation of instant success. Online,  wealth, fame, and achievement are often portrayed as effortless, as if they can be attained overnight. Social, media feeds are crowded with viral influencers, overnight millionaires, and self-proclaimed “entrepreneurs” , promoting the idea that hard work and patience are outdated. However, this illusion undermines the true value of perseverance and personal growth. Genuine success – whether financial, professional, or personal-  comes from dedication, consistency, and resilience in the face of challenges. Those who chase shortcuts and easy achievements risk developing shallow ambitions and building weak foundations that cannot withstand the realities of life.

Living in the moment provides a powerful remedy to these modern challenges. Mindfulness—the practice of being fully present and engaged —helps individuals to reconnect with reality and appreciate life beyond the screen. By focusing on the here and now, people can cultivate gratitude for simple pleasures, such as meaningful conversations, personal accomplishments, and time spent with loved ones. Rather than measuring themselves against online illusions, people can set their own standards for success and fulfillment. This shift not only nurtures emotional well-being but also strengthens real-life relationships, sparks creativity, and builds resilience.

The rise of social media and the glorification of effortless achievements have created a false sense of reality, pulling people away from authentic and meaningful lives. While technology itself is not inherently harmful, the way it shapes perceptions and priorities has profound consequences on mental health, personal fulfillment, and society’s collective values. To escape this illusion, people must consciously choose to live in the present, embrace patience, and seek purpose beyond digital validation. True happiness and success are not measured in followers, likes, or instant rewards, but in the depth of our experiences and the authenticity of our journey.