The Age Of Pretend: Where's The Real You?
Candid Conversations

The Age Of Pretend: Where's The Real You?

Jan 11, 2025, 2:20 AM
Vivien Mangalindan

Vivien Mangalindan

Columnist

THE BACK STORY We live in a time where filters and fake appearances are everywhere. It’s easy to lose sight of who we really are. But guess what? Your true self is your best asset. When you're real - you shine.

FROM REAL TALK TO REHEARSED WORDS

Conversations used to just flow - a phone call or an unexpected knock on the door. Now, it feels like everything needs to be planned out, texted, or rehearsed.

  • Is it really that hard to just be real?

Scenario: Jenny and Sue always had lively, unplanned phone chats.

  • Before: Jenny called Sue whenever she felt like it - and they’d talk about anything.
  • After: Now, Sue texts first, asking, “What should we talk about?” The fun, easy flow is gone.

Solution: Don’t overthink it. Pick up the phone - and see where the conversation goes.

FAKE SMILES, FILTERED LIVES

Perfect smiles and flawless photos are everywhere now - but they often scream fake. It’s all about looking good - instead of being real.

  • When the filters fade - what’s left?

Scenario: Ted loved posting unpolished photos of fun, real moments.

  • Before: He captured candid shots with friends that showed the fun they had.
  • After: Now, every photo is edited to “perfection.” It looks polished - but lacks realness.

Solution: Share unfiltered moments. Those messy, imperfect shots feel real - and connect with others.

THE FEAR OF REAL CONNECTION

People avoid calls, dread the doorbell, and stay silent to avoid judgment. Ironically, this makes us “connected” - but lonelier than ever.

Scenario: Tanya and Rachel used to stop for impromptu chats on the street.

  • Before: They’d talk openly, sharing honest opinions and experiences.
  • After: Now, Tanya quickly says, “Just busy,” avoids eye contact, and moves on.

Solution: Be bold. Engage in real, meaningful conversations - even if it feels scary.

LET'S GET REAL
The best moments in life happen when we’re unfiltered and honest. Forget the “perfect” act. Real, messy, and spontaneous is where true joy lives.

Scenario: Jack always had a blast at game night by being himself.

  • Before: He would joke, share funny stories, and enjoy every moment without holding back.
  • After: Now, he barely joins in. He nods, gives short answers, and hides his real thoughts, afraid of what others might think.

Solution: Let go of the fear. Be yourself - sharing the real you brings back the fun and connection.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Technology is amazing - but don’t let it replace what really matters: realness.

Scenario: Lisa and May used to chat for hours without needing a “topic.”

  • Before: They’d share memories, laugh, and connect deeply.
  • After: Now, May checks her phone nervously as Lisa says, “Let’s talk more,” and it feels awkward.

Solution: Put down the phone, make eye contact, and invest in genuine, heartfelt conversations.

TIPS AND TECHNIQUES

In a world full of noise and masks - your true self shines brightest.

  • Stop waiting for the “perfect” time to talk. Just do it.
  • Be unapologetically you - flaws, quirks, and all.
  • Real connections are born from honesty - not filters or screens.

Remember: Be real - and let others enjoy connecting with the real you.

vivienshowandtell@gmail.com

YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/@ShowAndTellWithMissV

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