Writing on Instagram has helped me practice authenticity, build courage and speak honestly. I want to continue participating, not out of obligation, but because the process of creating and sharing moves me forward and contributes to growth. By trying to be intentional and fully present, I’ve been forced to investigate what I’m doing and why.

Sure I bring jars to the store, but what does posting about it actually mean? Why am I doing it, why does it matter, and why is talking about it important?

Instagram can get a bad rap for invoking comparison, perfectionism, and unattainable expectations- leading to discouragement, feeling inadequate, numbing behaviour, continuous scrolling etc... But these things aren’t intrinsic to Instagram, they’re a result of how we use media and a general reflection of our cultural condition. It’s about how we each choose to show up in the world. We can see Instagram simply as it is, a form of media and tool for representation- it isn’t lived experience, it’s a sliver.

I think social media can be an amazingly powerful tool for connection and catalyst for inspiring change. But if you aren't using it in an intentional or conscious way, it may not serve its greatest usefulness, and may have the reverse effect, limiting your ability to be present for your actual experience of being alive.

So, are you using (any) media to avoid participating in and creating your life?

When does an image or content stop being meaningful and become spam or noise?

Why are you doing what you’re doing?

I am trying to only use Instagram when using it is in alignment with my values and priorities. Which means that if something I value in real life requires more energy and becomes a priority, then Instagram gets less focus because I won’t be able to show up here intentionally with mindful attention. So where is the line between using media for growth and knowledge, and the point when it detracts from creating your life, being with others, and participating in the world?

What's your relationship like with different media?

Photography features items from The Soap Dispensary & Kitchen Staples, located in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Soap Dispensary is a zero waste refillery.