Online stalking is too easy. All you need to know is a person's name or where they're from- and boom! Suddenly you're looking at photos from their best friend's aunt's wedding in Sarasota. How did I get here?
Often, we don't even think before looking up someone online. Generation Z is so consumed by the idea of knowing everything about everyone and everywhere before it even happens.
Yelp- the application that allows you to see business' reviews before you even leave the house. You can even see pictures of the food at a restaurant before deciding what to order.
It's clear that we have become obsessed with the idea of knowing everything, so we'll never be surprised or caught off guard.
We think we're protecting ourselves by scoping out a future boyfriend or a new friend online- but we're only limiting the positive surprises we can gain by getting to know a person through talking to them. Sure, it can be helpful to stalk someone before a blind date or in other special situations, but we're taking away the element of surprise in our relationships. This may sound ridiculous, but I think we have taken Instagram stalking a bit too far.
I'm envious of older generations. The idea of meeting someone in person, getting to know them only through what you're told, and not worrying about showcasing your relationship online all sound like a much greater experience.
Social media often takes away from personal relationships. We constantly feel like we have to update our Instagrams- removing pictures of old boyfriends, showcasing new ones, and who we're friends with. When explaining this concept to someone from an older generation it sounds just as ridiculous as it is.
If I'm being honest, I'm probably just as guilty of this behavior as anyone else. But I'm choosing to challenge myself and encourage you all to as well to take a step back from social media stalking. Resist the urge to know everything about everyone- before you've given them a chance to introduce themselves in person.
Save yourself from the pain of stalking an ex, or someone you envy. Take a break from maintaining the ~perfect Instagram aesthetic~ and allow yourself to live freely and without the worry of someone stalking your profile.
It really could not be truer or more cliche, but ignorance is bliss.
