The Truth Behind “Perfect Lives” on Social Media

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Hi friend,

Two days ago, I shared a post about my graduation and new role, which received a lot of attention, far more than most of my other posts. (Linkedin, Selim’s Notes)

From the outside, it might look like things are all falling into place.

But here’s the part you don’t see.

Behind the milestone photos and “good news” updates:

• I applied for 100+ jobs before getting this one.

• I was rejected from programs I wanted to join.

• I couldn’t take part in mobility opportunities that some of my friends enjoyed.

• And in many areas, professionally, personally, academically, financially, I’m still figuring it out.

The truth is: no one has it all together.

Even the people you look at and think “they’ve made it” are carrying struggles you’ll never see on LinkedIn or Instagram.

The lesson

If you’ve been feeling like you’re falling behind, don’t beat yourself up.

Gratitude is the antidote.

Yes, keep striving. Try new things. Apply. Build.

But also remember: you never have 100% control.

Not everything is in your hands.

And that’s okay.

Real progress happens in the balance: doing what you can, and letting go of what you can’t.

A small practice

Each day, write down 3 things you’re grateful for.

They don’t need to be big.

Some days, “a good coffee” makes the list. Other days, it might be “friends who encouraged me” or “a rejection that taught me resilience.”

Over time, gratitude reframes your failures as part of a bigger journey.

Thanks for reading today’s reflection.

See you tomorrow with another note on habits, growth, and the messy process of figuring it out.

Let’s connect; 👉 www.linkedin.com/in/selimuysal

Selim

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