Social media gives us opportunities to connect with others, discover new interests, and share experiences, but it can also make comparison difficult to avoid. The third module (3 of 6) in the Cybersmile x Erborian Self-Esteem Academy examines how curated content, algorithms, and social expectations can shape the way we view our own lives.
In Likes and Lows 2026, 66% of respondents said they compare themselves to people or lifestyles they see on social media, while 60% reported that online content negatively affects their self-esteem. These findings highlight the value of understanding how the content we encounter online can influence our expectations and perceptions.
From highlight reels and personal milestones to appearance pressures and lifestyle expectations, the questions explore why comparing our everyday experiences with selected moments from someone else's life can create an unfair picture. You'll also learn how algorithms can repeatedly expose us to similar content, reinforcing particular ideas about success, relationships, or appearance.
The practical guidance focuses on recognizing when comparison is affecting your confidence, questioning assumptions about what you see online, making more intentional choices about the accounts you follow, and setting goals that reflect your own values and circumstances.