Why We Can't Stop Rewatching Our Own Instagram Stories

Ever caught yourself repeatedly watching your own Instagram Stories before they vanish after 24 hours? You're not alone! Many people, including content creators, admit to doing the same. This habit, often referred to as "self-stalking," has become a common phenomenon, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The Obsession with Self-Stalking

Take, for instance, TikTok creator @hyly.angie, known for her Javanese language content. She often uploads Instagram Stories for herself, watching them multiple times within a 24-hour period, even up to 900 times! This content went viral and resonated with many, demonstrating the widespread appeal of this seemingly peculiar behavior. It's not just in Indonesia; international creators like @emilybrogann and @xoxotatianaa also create content specifically for this purpose, acknowledging their desire to rewatch their own stories. @xoxotatianaa's video even went viral, garnering over 600,000 likes, further proving the popularity of this trend.

But what drives this obsession with replaying our own content? Why are we so drawn to revisiting our digital footprints? Psychologists and experts have delved into this phenomenon, uncovering several key reasons.

Understanding Ourselves Through Others' Eyes

Psychologist Eloise Skinner, an expert in existential identity, explains that we self-stalk because we crave understanding how others perceive us. We want to see ourselves through their eyes, as it helps us answer the age-old question, "Who am I?" This desire stems from our inherent need to understand our own identity, a need that social media inadvertently amplifies.

We try to interpret others' thoughts and opinions by imagining how they react to our social media content. This is a subconscious attempt to gauge our social standing and understand how we are perceived in the wider social landscape.

The Constant Pursuit of Social Validation

Psychologist Zoe Mallet adds another layer to this explanation. She argues that our desire to replay our content is deeply rooted in our innate need for social acceptance and validation. This subconscious drive is a primal instinct, a survival mechanism that has been with us long before the advent of social media.

From choosing an outfit for an event to carefully crafting our words in a conversation, we have always attempted to control how others perceive us. Social media is simply a modern extension of this ancient human instinct, a platform where we can curate our digital selves and seek validation from others.

Navigating Insecurities and Perfectionism

Self-stalking can also arise from insecurity about our own identity. We may compare our digital lives with others, noticing what we perceive as missing or what we dislike about ourselves. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a desire to revisit our content to reassure ourselves or make adjustments.

However, Skinner emphasizes that this desire to revisit our uploaded content is not necessarily a negative trait. It's similar to flipping through old photo albums, journals, or scrapbooks, offering a glimpse into past versions of ourselves. Social media can serve as a repository of our personal history, allowing us to indulge in social media nostalgia, which can be positive and beneficial.

The Potential Downsides of Self-Stalking

While self-stalking can be motivating or entertaining, it's important to be mindful of its potential downsides. This habit can exacerbate self-criticism, leading to a constant cycle of comparison and dissatisfaction. It can also trap us in the past, preventing us from embracing the present and moving forward.

If self-stalking makes you feel inferior, self-absorbed, or distracted from things you want to do, it might be time to limit your self-stalking habits and redirect your focus toward more constructive activities.

Striking a Balance in the Digital Age

The key lies in finding a balance between self-reflection and living in the present. Remember, social media is a tool, not a reflection of your entire life. Focus on creating content that brings you joy and authenticity, and don't let the pursuit of validation overshadow your genuine self. Embrace your true identity and live authentically, both online and offline.