Why Highlight Reels Don’t Build Trust
We’ve all seen it. Scroll through social media, and it can look like everyone else’s life is perfectly curated—exotic vacations, big career wins, happy family moments. And honestly, it’s not just online. In everyday conversations, too, people tend to share the neat, polished version of their lives—the part that sounds good, looks good, and makes others comfortable.
But here’s the problem: when all we ever see is someone’s highlight reel, we stop believing them.
We know life isn’t that perfect. Deep down, we all carry struggles, disappointments, and unfinished stories. And when someone presents only the glowing version, it creates a gap. Instead of connecting, we start to feel distance. Instead of building trust, it actually erodes it.
The Power of Vulnerability
I’m not talking about oversharing or spilling every detail of your private life. Vulnerability doesn’t mean baring it all—it means being willing to show what’s unfolding. It’s saying, “I don’t have it all figured out yet,” or “this part of my story is still in progress.”
That kind of honesty is magnetic. Because here’s the thing: people don’t connect with perfection. They connect with what’s real.
Why It Matters in Times of Transition
If you’re in the middle of a transition—whether it’s moving abroad, coming home, changing careers, or simply navigating a big life shift—you don’t owe anyone a tidy story that makes it all look rosy. In fact, sharing your “unfinished” story might be the most generous thing you can do. It gives others permission to stop pretending, to breathe a little easier, and to admit, “Me too—I’m still figuring things out.”
Living the Story You’re Actually In
Maybe what we all need is more space for the stories we’re actually living, not the ones we think will impress people. Not the ones we polish up to make others more comfortable.
Credibility doesn’t come from looking perfect. It comes from being honest.
And trust me, the story you’re living—even if it’s unfinished—is already enough.