Social Media. Finding Balance.

You guys, social media is taking over our lives! No doubt it’s great for newsworthy items, and spreading awareness using social status and influence among your followers. But I can’t help but notice that everyone is obsessed with oversharing. All of us…you and me both! What people are wearing, what they’re eating, what they’re reading, where they’re traveling…it’s sensory overload.

I started this blog almost 2 years ago to have something I can call my own that I would always be passionate about, and to have fun! And while I must admit, it was a blast for a while, I eventually found myself completely addicted to my Instagram account, and putting this insane pressure on myself to post a daily pic…….um…….so NOT fun! In more recent months, I have finally taken control of things by taking a step back. If you follow me on Instagram, you may have noticed that I haven’t been as active as I once was. But you know what? There haven been so many crazy things going on in this world that it’s helped me to get more perspective. My son, my husband, my friends, my present company (whoever that may be) – ALL so much more important than social media.

You’re the only one who controls your decisions, and that includes how you spend your time. Make sure that at the end of the day, you’re happy with the choices you’ve made.

I get the whole idea of wanting to fit in and rise to the top, but you’ll never get there by trying to be like everyone else.

One thing is true – I’m always gonna keep it real with you guys. On the blog, on Instagram, Facebook, anywhere…because truth of the matter is, if you know me in real life, or if we ever have the chance to meet in person, I want you to read my blog, or see my pictures, and say to yourself, “yep, that’s Karen!”

After navigating through this world of social media, and having met so many new people, there are a few that stand out, and I’m so grateful to have met them. It’s no secret that I’m all about the real ones. Remember this…people are gonna love or hate you no matter what you do. Gotta love me or leave me alone, am I right?

So friends, this is the best advice I can offer: Be you. Do you. For you. You’ll be so much more happier for it.

xo Karen

Here are some of my suggestions for thoughtful ways to spend your time that isn’t about getting the social media pic (but, I get it, and know that sometimes it just naturally turns into that).

1. Quality Time with Family

Just a little throwback to summer when Emilio kicked my hubby’s butt during a friendly card game on the deck. Clearly, my son was reveling in his win…haha!

2. Volunteering to help others in need

Here’s a great place that my family volunteered for last weekend. America’s Grow-a-Row is an organization that harvests and donates 1.2 million pounds of produce every year to hunger agencies! We helped collect 1900 lbs towards that goal.

3. Donating to Charities

With all of the recent tragedies, why not donate whatever you can to help our fellow citizens in Puerto Rico by visiting the Hispanic Federation.

4. Me Time

In any way that feels good for you, self-love is so important. So do whatever it is that helps you to relax and unwind. Get a massage, or a manicure, read a book, or just find a few minutes to take a nap. Listen to your body and feed your soul.