Chasing Likes, Losing Peace: The Illusion of Online Validation

You post a photo, check back in five minutes, and feel a rush when the likes start rolling in. But what happens when they don’t? For many, especially in Tier 2 cities where digital growth is exploding, this constant hunt for approval online has quietly become a daily habit. What looks like connection is often just a loop of empty validation.

What Online Validation Actually Means
Online validation is the boost we feel when others react positively to what we share — a like, a comment, a follow. It feels good, even addictive. But here’s the catch: this approval is fleeting. Once the excitement fades, we start chasing the next hit, just to feel the same again.

The Problem With Depending on It
Over time, your mood can become tied to how your posts perform. If a reel doesn’t get enough views, you feel low. If someone else is getting more engagement, you feel less. The problem isn’t just emotional — it affects how you see yourself and your worth.

Real Life vs Reel Life
On platforms like Instagram or Snapchat, people post the best five seconds of their day. This creates a false image of constant happiness and success. But in reality, everyone has struggles — they just don’t post those. Comparing your real life to someone’s highlight reel can mess with your mental health.

Why This Hits Tier 2 Cities Differently
As internet access grows rapidly in smaller cities, so does the pressure to keep up with online trends. For many young users, especially teenagers, social media is not just entertainment — it’s a scoreboard. And without proper awareness, the need to be seen and liked can spiral quickly.

Breaking the Loop
Start by asking: why am I posting this? If the answer is only to get likes, maybe pause. Limit how often you check for responses. Spend more time offline with people who know the real you. Validation from real conversations lasts longer than any emoji on your screen.

Conclusion
It’s natural to want to be appreciated. But when your sense of self starts depending on how many hearts or shares you get, it’s time to step back. Online validation feels real — but without balance, it becomes an illusion. You’re worth more than a number on a screen.