Choosing REALSample

#realisthenewperfect: Freedom in the Midst of Online Distractions

A family outing to the pumpkin patch—where I attempted to control my kids and husband for the “perfect family photo” only to react like an insane woman—birthed the vision for #realisthenewperfect.

Real is the new perfect, especially when it comes to online distractions and attempts at portraying perfection.

Real and authentic are buzzwords in our technological age. We are starving for genuine, unpolished, what’s-really-going-on-behind-the-scenes connection. Only when our true stories reflect a genuine Creator will social media invite and engage freedom. Perfection is found as I follow Jesus into the center of real life—social media included—and come to know His heart, one overflowing with freedom and peace. If authenticity is what you crave, look no further than within His dwelling place. Where God, the author of authenticity resides. The more we clear away distractions, the clearer we’ll see Him in the details of today.

Three ways to embrace #realisthenewperfect:

1. Pay attention to social media triggers. Does being online bring out a genuine version of yourself, or would “unplugging” be in your best interest? The more you care about what Jesus thinks, the less social media has power over your thoughts and emotions.
2. Where are you going for truth? Online or in the Word? Only Jesus is the Truth—the Author, the Healer, and the Promise of enough. No comment, article, quote, picture, ooh, ah, share, or like will offer certainty that you are worthy and enough.
3. Time online affects our families. Let’s model to our children and grandchildren how to be comfortable without a device to distract from real-time conversation. Seek perfection in Jesus, not a shiny, perfection-portraying online culture, regardless of how “real” you are led to believe it is.

#realisthenewperfect Practices

● Put your phone away and get creative. Grab a book or a brush or a pen.

● Remove apps that may distract you and waste your time.

● Assume the motto, “Post, then be present.”

● Be with the people you’re with.

● Respect technology as a tool, not a trophy.

● Change the selfie culture from me to He.