21/10/2026
Article #22
Learning to look beyond the screen
From the perspective of Asna Gull
It is okay to admire someone. But when does admiration become something more?
We admire celebrities for many reasons. Their music makes us happy, their performances move us, and their achievements inspire us. Yet, in a world where we follow their lives through screens every day, it is worth asking when admiration begins to influence how we see ourselves?
Being a fan is nothing unusual. Having a favourite actor, singer, athlete, or content creator is part of enjoying entertainment. The concern is not admiration itself, but what happens when someone else's life begins to matter more than our own.
The Illusion of Knowing Someone
Social media has made celebrities feel closer to us than ever before. We see their celebrations, relationships, travels, and everyday moments. Over time, this exposure can create a sense of familiarity, almost as though we know them personally.
But what we see is only a part of their lives. Behind every photograph or video are private experiences and struggles we may never know about. Their online presence offers a glimpse of their lives, not the complete picture.
When we compare our everyday lives with the carefully selected moments on our screens, we risk forgetting how little we actually see of someone else's world.
When Inspiration Becomes Comparison
Celebrity influence can shape how we understand beauty, success, and happiness. A hairstyle becomes a trend, a particular appearance becomes desirable, and a luxurious lifestyle becomes something to aspire to.
There is nothing wrong with taking inspiration from someone we admire. The problem begins when inspiration becomes a standard we feel pressured to meet.
We can appreciate someone's style without needing to look exactly like them. We can celebrate another person's achievements without treating them as proof that we are falling behind. Admiration should enrich our lives, not make us feel that our own lives are inadequate.
Celebrity endorsements also remind us to think critically. Before purchasing a product simply because someone we admire recommends it, we should consider whether it genuinely suits our needs. Appreciating someone does not mean accepting everything they promote.
Fame Is Not the Only Measure of Success
Social media has created opportunities for people to turn creativity and content creation into careers. This can inspire young people exploring their interests and ambitions.
However, online fame can sometimes make popularity appear to be the ultimate achievement. We see the recognition and rewards, but not always the uncertainty, effort, and challenges behind them.
There are many meaningful ways to build a life. Success does not have to come with millions of followers, and a person's worth cannot be measured by popularity.
Admire Them, But Don't Lose Yourself
I don't believe we need to stop following celebrities or enjoying what they create. Entertainment brings joy, talent deserves appreciation, and inspiring stories encourage us to grow.
Perhaps what we need is a healthier balance; to admire without idealising, to learn without imitating, and to appreciate someone else's journey without losing sight of our own.
Celebrities are human beings with lives beyond our screens. So are we, with dreams, abilities, and stories that deserve just as much attention.
Maybe the question is not whether we should admire celebrities, but whether we can do so while remaining comfortable with who we are.
After all, we can appreciate someone else's light without dimming our own.
