The deeply underrated aspect of social media, a part that often escapes attention, is the way it becomes a mirror reflecting who we think we can be. It presents examples of who we want to be, who we dare to envision ourselves becoming. For young people especially, social media lights up the branches they reach for in life, illuminating paths they might never have seen otherwise.
You know, in this digital age, our encounters in the physical world are dwarfed by those online. While meeting people in person has its unique value, the truth is that our online connections often shape our identities. And the sheer number of these online ‘connections’ (parasocial or not) is staggering.
This digital world helps young people explore possible selves. But it's also a double-edged sword. What are the implications of the fact that the top career aspiration in America is "influencer"? Young people's dreams are so powerfully shaped by what they see online, so it’s no wonder they want to emulate the entertainers their screens are flooded with?
The internet is rich and diverse, but it can also create blind spots. Young people are missing out on a whole spectrum of role models who don't make noise online. Consider the trade union leaders or trial lawyers, vital roles in our society, but who represents them online? Who's showing that workers' power is a lifestyle, or inspiring young minds to fight corporate power?
In today's world, millions of young people look up to figures like Andrew Tate, who they discover online. The digital realm is as real to them as any other part of their lives. But are we doing enough to illuminate the diversity of possibilities out there? Are we taking responsibility to bring different kinds of heroes into the mainstream? The kind of super heroic paths that might not involve fame, but craft, integrity, and service?
Not everyone needs to be an influencer. Our world also needs bricklayers, plumbers, trial lawyers, and so many more. It's much easier to step into a career, especially one that might seem abstract, if you can become familiar with someone already in that field. We must strive to make that connection happen.
In the grand tapestry of life, our job is to ensure that the threads don't only reflect fame and glamour. We must weave in the ordinary superheroes too, those who sustain our world every day. This is how we can broaden horizons and light up more possibilities for our youth.
They deserve to see the full picture.