We can’t deny that social media has already become an inseparable part of our life. It is pervasive, it is influential, and it is impactful. But as it happens with everything that gives us entertainment and pleasure, we can quickly get addicted to it which, in turn, harms our wellbeing. So what can be done to establish a healthy pattern and enjoy social media without suffering the detrimental causes?
1. Turn off the notification.
It can be challenging to focus on tasks or get the work done on time if the notifications of social media updates, messages and news constantly pop up on your screen. A lot of peoplehave experienced a situation where they would unconsciously log in to their accounts just to check the notification and get lost for a long time. Some obsessively monitor notifications to check you liked their photo or left a comment on their status update. These are unhealthy habits that will only lead to anxiety and stress, so the most effective way to battle them is to turn off the notifications and check the accounts during the breaks
2. Leave your phone away before going to sleep
Countless studies have proven the negative impact of using phones before sleeping. More than 45% of adults scroll through the social media feed at night which brings havoc into their sleeping schedules. This tendency causes insomnia, poor quality of sleep and overall tiredness. So make sure to put your phone out of your reach so that you wouldn’t be temptedto scroll through social media.
3. Follow healthy and productive morning routine
For the majority of people, mornings don’t start with a cup of coffee. It kicks off with a 30-minute social media check. We hastily log into our accounts to see what happened during the night, check the updates on the page of our favorite celebrity and share memes with friends. While it may not sound so bad, such a pattern contributes to social media addiction and negatively impacts our productivity. Instead, why don’t you start the day with a short stroll? Or a yoga session? Or setting up plans? Or learning a new skill? There are millions of ways to make the most out of the morning and improve your wellbeing. You can also get your friends or family members involved into this and strengthen your relationship.
4. Place less importance of social media
Yes, easier said than done. However, by regarding social media as a tool for communicationnot an end goal, you can break the negative pattern. Overthinking about each comment or over analyzing the content of your post even though this is a simple picture of your cat are signs of social media addiction. The only way to reverse the negative effects is to change your mindset. Remember that your value doesn’t depend on the number of likes you get. Social media should neither dictate your actions or perception nor should it determine your self-esteem.
5. Take your time and be good to yourself
No changes happen overnight. Any major actions towards positive improvement require sustainable habits, commitment and consistency. It takes time and effort, so be gentle to yourself. Focus on small changes taking on step at a time. Reach out to your family and friends, seek support and stay positive.No changes happen overnight. Any major actions towards positive improvement require sustainable habits, commitment and consistency. It takes time and effort, so be gentle to yourself. Focus on small changes taking on step at a time. Reach out to your family and friends, seek support and stay positive.
