With its Instagram-esque insecurities now becoming a trend, people can embrace their individuality and uniqueness. From flaws to curly hair, freckles and fake dark circles, what was once considered flaccidity is now a fashion statement. Insecurities are a common factor in life, from physical appearance to personality and behaviour. Emotional instability, inferiority, and jealousy are common reactions to feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt.
In Gurugram, Taarini Marwaha Malhotra, a counselling psychologist, asserts that accepting one’s insecurities is essentially about finding oneself. By recognizing and discussing these vulnerabilities, people can feel more connected to others around them, helping to foster a sense of togetherness. Social media’s growth has contributed to this change. Experts say trends on platforms such as Instagram can be a reflection of deep insecurity, or they could be the result of peer pressure and an overemphasis on role models. Nonetheless, social media platforms enable individuals to establish insecurities and foster authenticity in a world that is often seen as artificial.
These trends may have some downsides, despite their intentions. Chhibber suggests that pursuing trends without question can lead to feelings of inadequacy and hinder self-respect. Additionally, patterns can distract from more significant concerns and promote an unrelenting pursuit of validation from others.
Still, these trends have a silver lining. According to Malhotra, they serve as a means of fostering freedom of expression and community support. People can experience a sense of freedom and release pent-up emotions by turning insecurities into trends. Instagram influencers offer varying opinions on this phenomenon. The belief that trends are a positive force can be observed by Alina Hasan Rizvi, while Diksha Singh and others believe that unrealistic beauty standards may be reinforced.
Ultimately, however, whether these trends are positive or negative is subjective. According to Bhavyaa Tiwari, diversity is what makes beauty beautiful and it should not be hidden. In summary, Instagram’s role in transforming insecurities into trends is a reflection of the cultural shift towards authenticity and self-expression. These trends, while not universally beneficial, demonstrate how social media can revolutionize societal norms and foster a culture of belongingness and inclusivity.
