The Mental Health Social Media Reality Check
Taking a completely opposite tack completely to the usual articles I post and whilst we are in these difficult times, I ask you is it time to give yourself a break from your ‘newsfeed’?
I recently undertook a 30-day break from social media. A caveat - I didn’t take a break from my responsibilities with my work social media platforms, just the personal ones. Whilst the idea that may scare some of you (it did me initially) there are a number of things I learnt, here are a few of them – maybe these will resonate with you?
1. Happiness and Contentment.
In the virtual reality of social media, it’s very easy to compare your life with your friends and get caught in the keeping up with the Jones’ battle. We want to be like the other person, we like how their body looks, we love the things they have, life seems to be going forward for them while our life seems to be at a standstill. On social media, everyone posts their nicest pictures and best moments.
It is highly unlikely that anyone is going to put their bad moments on display for all to see. If someone travels around the world on holidays, there will probably be a picture of it on social media, but if their landlord should kick them out for not paying rent, they probably won’t mention it online.
2. Productivity.
You will suddenly realise that a lot can be done instead of scrolling up and down on social media. Instead of wasting time on social media, you can actually invest that time into your dreams and watch them become reality. At work, you can get a lot done instead of peeping on your phone every now and then. It can be very easy to deceive yourself by trying to limit your social media use, but how many times has a planned 15 minutes on social media turned into 2 hours? You don’t fight temptation, you avoid it.
3. Ideas and Innovation reign supreme.
When you are constantly distracted with social media, your brain is shut to real-life issues and you become less innovative. When you break up with social media, you will be become more innovative and improve your life. Perhaps you need more money or sales, but merely wishing for it doesn’t earn you any extra cash. If you drop the phone and stop distracting yourself with social media, an idea on how to create those sales might come to you.
The final thought: Sometimes we have to unplug to connect.
One thing stuck with me throughout the 30 days: I was always plugged in. The matrix of social media had me hooked I couldn’t get enough. I was so addicted that I checked my Facebook and ‘Insta’ first thing in the morning and before bed. I found myself wrapped up in the life of others, comparing and contrasting my progress and success, instead of focusing on myself and my Growth.
My final words of advice. Don’t be afraid of seeking help when you need it - even if it is just a beer (or good red) and chat with a mate.
If all or any part of this resonates with you, perhaps it’s time to reflect, take a Digital Detox or unplug to connect? And, If you need to reach out to someone – I’m happy to be at the other end of the line!