Written By Rowan Cox
Account Executive
The quick rise of “Day in the Life” content has captured the attention of millions of users, giving them a glimpse into the seemingly perfect routines many influencers have curated. From 5 AM workouts to productive work days and healthy meals, these videos paint a romanticized picture of what life could look like if only we did the same. While these videos may seem entertaining and harmless, they are known to also create a toxic narrative for consumers who compare their lives to the curated ones online.
When these videos first appear on one’s feed, they give users a glimpse into a creator’s life. They can inspire users when it comes to structuring their day-to-day routine, planning meals, and balancing work and play. But what happens when these videos don’t accurately reflect the routines of influencers? What many don’t realize is that these routines have been edited down to highlight the most polished, perfected moments of one’s day. There is no telling how accurate these videos are when an influencer publishes them, which is where the ethical issues of these videos arise.
We often see social media as a highlight reel rather than a place to publish relatable, authentic content. When Day in the Life videos consist of all the highlights rather than the ups and downs throughout one’s day, unrealistic standards are set for viewers. For example, when influencers create these filtered videos, viewers are left with unrealistic standards and a feeling that their lives are inadequate in comparison. This comparative thinking can slowly erode one's self-esteem, making them feel insufficient compared to someone they only know online. Day in the Life videos intensifies this issue as they showcase a version of one’s life that may not be achievable for everyone, even the influencer themself.
While this cycle of consuming and comparing can seem inevitable on social media, there are ways to break free. The main way to do this is to become a conscious consumer, recognizing that not every video has complete authenticity behind it. It is important to realize that they are humans with problems, too, but they have to promote a particular lifestyle to support their image. Being mindful of this when scrolling can make all the difference in protecting one’s mental health.
Ultimately, while “Day in the Life” content can inspire viewers to shift their daily routines, it is important to remember that not everything posted online reflects real life. By being mindful of our content and taking these videos with a grain of salt, we can avoid getting stuck in the cycle of toxic comparison. Instead of chasing perfection online, we can strive to find authenticity and balance in our content.
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