• The article explores the phenomenon of individuals frequently watching their own Instagram Stories, a behavior that may seem peculiar at first glance. It begins by contrasting the common notion of "Instagram stalking," which typically involves scrutinizing the profiles of others, with the introspective act of self-viewing. Many users find themselves caught in a cycle of replaying their own Stories and monitoring who has viewed them, despite knowing the content intimately. The author highlights that this behavior extends beyond Stories to the overall social media experience, where users often revisit their profiles for a morale boost or to reflect on past moments. The motivations behind this self-stalking are examined through the perspectives of various individuals, revealing a mix of curiosity about how others perceive them and a desire for self-validation. Psychotherapists Eloise Skinner and Zoe Mallet provide insights into the psychological underpinnings of this behavior. They suggest that the urge to view oneself from an external perspective is rooted in a long-standing human instinct to understand how we are perceived by others. This desire for social acceptance and approval is ingrained in our nature, leading to a tendency to curate our online identities meticulously. The article also discusses how social media serves as a platform for self-presentation, where users strive to project an idealized version of themselves. This can lead to perfectionism, as individuals may repeatedly check their content to ensure it aligns with their desired image. The pressure to maintain a certain online persona can be overwhelming, prompting users to question whether they are presenting themselves in a balanced way. While the act of revisiting one's content can be a normal and even nostalgic practice, the article warns of potential pitfalls. If this behavior becomes excessive or leads to negative self-reflection, it may indicate an unhealthy relationship with social media. The authors emphasize the importance of being mindful of how self-stalking affects one's mental state, suggesting that it should be a source of comfort rather than anxiety. Ultimately, the article concludes that while the desire to revisit our own content is common, it is essential to strike a balance and remain aware of the motivations behind this behavior. The addictive nature of social media, designed to elicit validation and dopamine hits, can complicate our relationship with self-viewing, making it crucial to reflect on its impact on our overall well-being.