We live in a society were social media can help us feel connected to our family and friends, as well as our favourite celebrities, brands, products and influences where ever we maybe in the world any time or day.
With access through social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat to name a few there can be times when we are scrolling through these platforms we may find ourselves feeling miserable, depressed, lonely or unhappy.
The unhappiness which an individual feels when they spend time on social media can relate to largely comparing our lives with those in which we follow. It can leave us feeling at times that everyone else’s life is way more cooler or better than ours.
So you maybe asking yourself the question, how can I help protect myself or limit my time on Social Media to alleviate these triggers?
- Limiting your Social Media usage
The main challenge for people is that social media can trigger us to compare ourselves to others and can give us a false sense of insecurity as to how we should be living.
Start by setting yourself a goal that you only check either Facebook or Instagram for say 1 hour a day either in the morning or evening. By starting with small steps and closely monitoring it, you will be able to find time to start focusing on that new hobby/interest, course or new café you’ve been wanting to do.
- Deleting Apps from your device
You don’t need to complete delete your social media accounts, but deleting the apps from your phone or your tablet can help you with the urge to constantly check these platforms. By doing this it could give you the distance you need from being able to constantly checking what’s going on through these platforms.
- Focus on what’s good in your Life
When we are constantly seeing these perfect posts reminding us of what were really missing out on, it can be tough to remember all the good things you have already achieved in life. Reflecting on and being thankful for all the positive things in your life is essential when in comes down to counteracting the negative impacts of social medial. Gratitude goes along way.
- Motivation
Comparison may be the thief of joy when we judge ourselves through our social media channels, but it doesn’t need to be. A little envy just might be the key you need to kick start your self improvement goals into gear.
Amanda Ogden is from Sydney Australia, and has spent the past 13 years working within the welfare industry in both administration and case management assisting people with mental health issues, mild intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries, drug & alcohol, homelessness gain employment. She also loves travelling, creating jewellery, music, friends and family.
Defying Shadows 