Because my ex is watching my stories

In this age of social media dominance, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to escape the watchful eye of our exes. One click is all it takes for them to keep tabs on our lives through platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. And if you’re like me, this digital stalking can have unexpected consequences on your emotional well-being.

It all began innocently enough. After ending a long-term relationship, I found solace in the online world. Social media became an outlet for self-expression, a way to connect with distant friends, and an avenue to seek validation from the virtual community. Little did I know, my ex had also become engrossed in the same digital sphere, conveniently keeping tabs on my every move.

Soon after my breakup, I started posting stories on platforms like Instagram—a feature that allows users to share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours. It was here that I noticed my ex was continuously watching my stories, seemingly keen on staying updated with my life. At first, I didn’t think much of it. After all, we had shared a significant part of our lives together and it was only natural for there to be some lingering curiosity.

However, as the days turned into weeks and then months, I realized that this constant surveillance was affecting me more than I had anticipated. I found myself spending an inordinate amount of time crafting each story, meticulously choosing the perfect photo or video, and editing them to perfection. The purpose had shifted from sharing moments of my life to presenting a carefully curated highlight reel that was bound to impress my ex.

The incessant need for approval from someone who was no longer a part of my life felt unhealthy. It became clear that I was seeking validation from an outside source, someone who should no longer hold such an influential position in my life. My self-worth had become tangled in the number of views and reactions my stories garnered, and my emotional state seemed to hinge on the attention received from my ex.

Eventually, I had an epiphany. Why was I allowing my ex’s opinion to hold such power over me? Why did I care so much about what they thought of me? It was time to take back control of my own narrative. I switched my Instagram account to private, limiting access to only those who genuinely cared about my well-being. The motivation behind my social media presence changed completely – it was no longer about seeking external validation, but rather about self-expression and connecting with true friends.

Breaking free from the shackles of my ex’s virtual surveillance was liberating. It provided me with an opportunity to rediscover myself and focus on personal growth without the constant pressure of impressing someone from my past. I embraced the reality that not everyone will appreciate or understand my journey, and that is perfectly okay.

So, what have I learned from this experience? It’s a lesson in self-love and prioritizing my own happiness over someone else’s opinion. Social media can be a powerful tool, but it’s important to use it in a way that enhances our lives rather than hinders them. The number of views, likes, or reactions should never dictate our self-worth. It’s crucial to remember that we are in control of our own narratives, and no ex or external circumstances should hold power over our emotions.

In conclusion, navigating the intricacies of social media post-breakup can be overwhelming. It’s essential to recognize the impact that digital surveillance can have on our emotional well-being and take appropriate measures to protect ourselves. Remember, social media is merely a window into our lives, and we have the power to control what we allow others to see. Let go of the need for external validation and instead focus on cultivating a healthier relationship with yourself. After all, the story we tell should ultimately be for our own benefit and happiness, rather than the watchful eyes of an ex.