WELLNESS--We live in the age of selfies and narcissism. Of course, not everybody is self-involved but it seems that a perfect body and beautiful skin gets us attention, followers, and likes on social media and so why wouldn’t we have the wrong idea? After all, being self-focused sells!
The problem lies when people begin putting more emphasis on their physical self rather than on the more vital mission of serving and helping others.
I’ll be the first to admit that my body shots on Instagram get FAR more likes than the healthy food and organic strawberry pics, or the inspirational quotes. And if I hadn’t been around the block a few times, I would actually believe that these likes make me important or desired in some way.
The truth is that while admirers are appreciated, we all need to think more deeply about the important underlying message of why we are here. Using your fit body, good looks, or perfect smile to get attention is cool but what are you doing with that audience once you have them?
We are now in a time where authenticity, vulnerability and being of service IS the ONLY way! People are suffering like never before. The depression rate is rising, suicides are up, and numerous people are feeling lost, hopeless, and lacking direction. We can make a difference! We can begin sharing our stories with those around us, talking about our own personal struggles with honesty and heart without the need to appear perfect to the outside world.
By doing this, we not only break down our own walls, but we also let more people in. We communicate on a whole new level when we become raw, relatable, and real.
We’re moving beyond the times of hiding out online and presenting an image of air-brushed flawlessness. Instead we need to dig deep and ask the BIG questions. Why am I here? What can I do to help others? How can my challenges be turned into opportunities to serve? What unique gifts do I have to share with the world?
I’m not saying that we should ditch our regimented diet and fitness routine, laser treatments, or whitening toothpaste, and there is nothing wrong with using your physical qualities to garner accolades and attention, but this year, let’s go deeper than ever before. Let’s use our gifts and talents and appearance wisely and with love.
Something to ask yourself often is “how can I leave this world a better place because I lived?” Once you get the answers, get busy making it happen! After all, none of us know for sure how long we will be here and just imagine what an amazing world it would be if we each did just that. This year, let’s go from selfie to selfless and see what happens.
(Jay Bradley is a Youthful Aging, Wellness & Lifestyle Coach Living in Los Angeles. http://www.JayBradleyLIfestyle.com. He is the Best-Selling Author of LIVE LOOK FEEL, The 12-Week Guide to Live Longer, Look Younger & Feel Better!)
-cw
