Selfies

Can we talk straight about selfies today?

Selfies have been referred to as the “bold and wonderful homage to narcissism.”

The images that come to mind when I think ‘selfie’ are: duck lips, big hair, driver’s seat, big sunglasses, smokey eyes, sweaty abs, and pouty face. I mean if you google the term selfie under images…. that’s what you’re going to see, for the most part. I apologize and I mean no offense to the adorable selfies taken with children or the hard work you put into your make-up and workout. But, I can’t help it. It’s what my brain comes up with when the term is heard. Followed by images of hashtags: #selfie #noshame #ifeelpretty #newdo #imhot #sopretty #goodlife #goodtimes #lucky #absfordays #likeforlike…. you get the idea.

And for whatever reasons, I feel embarrassed when I see these in my social media feeds. I feel uncomfortable for the subject of the selfie. But why? They don’t! Why should I? I love the cute babes and happy parents with them. I’m inspired by your 6-pack and if I could do smokey eyes like you do, I might want to share it with the world too! But, why I feel this cringe of embarrassment I’m not quite sure.

I’ve taken many selfies either by myself for humorous reasons (i.e. when I happen to be in the car with ET) or when I want a pic with the person I’m with or because someone has asked me to send a picture of where I’m at. I have to admit. I feel embarrassed doing so every time.. There is nothing about me that feels comfortable taking a picture of myself. Yes, it feels like narcissism (be it or not) and I’m just not comfortable with it. That’s just me. Don’t get me wrong, I like myself. I’m pretty happy with me. I’m not embarrassed of myself (well, minus my clumsiness and sometimes inappropriateness), but I’m not thrilled with taking a selfie.

I am curious, though, and I say this without judgement (okay maybe a little depending on the pic), but what do you think is the thrill of taking selfies and why do I get so embarrassed?!