Social media has transformed the way young people perceive success. With constant streams of luxury, wealth, and seemingly perfect lifestyles, it’s easy to feel inadequate.
Recent revelations by Kenyan content creator Massage by Steve serve as a timely reminder that appearances can be deceptive—and that authenticity matters far more than curated illusions.
The Illusion of Perfection
Steve recently clarified during a podcast with Emos Njoroge that he has never owned a car, despite previously showcasing a Lexus in online videos.
He explained that the car belonged to a client and he only had temporary access to it, using it during a challenging period of depression.
This revelation highlights a crucial point: social media rarely reflects the full reality. Many creators, intentionally or not, post curated content that can mislead viewers into thinking they lead perfect, glamorous lives.
Young people consuming these posts may feel pressure to “keep up,” forgetting that much of what they see is temporary or staged.
The Mental Toll of Comparison
The constant comparison to online celebrity lifestyles can have serious effects on young people’s mental health.
Anxiety, low self-esteem, and even depression often stem from the belief that one is “behind” or failing because they cannot match curated portrayals of wealth and success.
ALSO READ: 90% of Kenyan celebrities fake their lifestyle – Wangechi
Steve’s honesty about his personal struggles reinforces an essential lesson
: self-worth is not measured by possessions or public perception, but by resilience, growth, and authenticity. Understanding this distinction is critical for young people navigating the pressures of social media culture.
Lessons from Steve’s Experience
Steve’s story offers both a cautionary tale and a lesson in authenticity. While social media can be entertaining and inspiring, it is rarely a complete reflection of reality.
Young people should remember that behind every highlight reel, there are unseen struggles, sacrifices, and challenges.
Moreover, creators themselves can learn to balance performance with honesty, understanding that vulnerability often resonates more deeply than a fabricated image of perfection.
Practical Advice for Young People
To navigate the pressure of online celebrity lives, young people should:
Focus on personal growth and realistic goals.
Critically evaluate the content they consume, remembering that online portrayals are often curated.
Celebrate small, genuine victories rather than chasing illusions.
Seek authentic role models who demonstrate resilience, hard work, and honesty.
Support from parents, educators, and mentors is also crucial in guiding young people toward healthy attitudes toward success and self-worth.
The Value of Authenticity
Ultimately, Steve’s revelation is a powerful reminder that social media should never dictate one’s sense of value. Real growth, fulfillment, and happiness come from living authentically, not from trying to match someone else’s curated life online.
In a world obsessed with appearances, embracing honesty, vulnerability, and self-compassion is not just empowering—it is revolutionary. Young people should remember that their worth is defined by their journey, not by how it looks on a screen.
by Judy mutinda
