Words: Nathan Fabiano

Social media was designed to keep us connected and updated to those closest to us, unfortunately for most - if not all platforms today - it’s further from the truth. Rather than connecting us, feelings of isolation, loneliness and jealousy are commonly felt when scrolling through Instagram stories or seeing a Facebook post of something you’ve wanted for so long.

Feeling unworthy or not good enough are common thoughts felt while using social media, however take note of the following tips on how to use social media in a more positive and meaningful way.

1. Realise that it’s a ‘highlight reel’

It’s important to understand that when you see something that might trigger you on social media that it’s simply a “highlight” and you don’t see the troubles that someone might be experiencing. Remember, comparison to others is a thief of your own personal joy. Maybe you’ve seen someone get promoted at work and you’ve been job hunting or working hard for that promotion but the tides haven’t turned in your favour. Try to understand that each person has their positives and negatives and their ups and downs and that you are only seeing the best bits. This will help you understand and appreciate your own reality.

2. Be a producer not a consumer

Rather than consume endless content that you’ll forget once you’ve put your phone down, start producing and creating your own content. When we drive our creative spark it helps with boosting overall mood, self-confidence and a sense of self-worth. If you’ve got certain talents or skills, start talking about them online, write blogs, film videos, take pictures and see what could happen. You will start meeting people of similar interests to yourself and building a network, if your content is favourable you might even start building a following which could lead to additional income streams, job opportunities and positions of importance. Your time on social media is now more productive and better yet your spare time will be more focused with good habits due to wanting to share your skills and hobbies with the world.

3. Show gratitude

Be a person of positivity and encouragement and watch the same energy flow back towards you. The world can be a harsh and negative place and ultimately unforgiving at times. When some posts their achievements, hobbies and interests online put yourself in a position of gratefulness and happiness for the other person. Sometimes people post personal content as they are seeking a sense of belonging but also encouragement. A small comment or message of appreciation can make all the difference in someone's day - and better yet your own day.

4. Limit your screen time

Do you feel that you might be living on your phone? Well, you probably are. Unless you have to use social media for work related purposes, try and limit screen time to a certain amount each day. If you’re someone who’s currently finding themselves scrolling hours on end daily then try reducing the amount of time by 30 minutes a day. Slowly but surely as time goes on, you’ll see yourself less addicted to the phone.

5. Download productive apps

Another way to reduce social media addiction but still use your phone is to essentially change what you're doing during screen time. There are a variety of apps you can download depending on your interests. Into fitness? Download fitness apps that can give you workouts, access to blogs, nutrition content. An example could be Nike Training Club, myfitnesspal and fooducate. Into reading? Maybe download the app Medium and subscribe to read a variety of different quality blogs from a wide range of people and their backgrounds. Rearranging your time and spending it on quality apps can make all the difference in regards to your mental health and overall emotional state.

6. Fill your time

The most simplistic and effective way to remove social media screen time is to be more busy and productive. If you enjoy exercising then it’s best practice to join a gym or health club and get active. More of a social person but still enjoy being active? Get involved in community sporting clubs, local community groups, such as WOW. Want to learn new skills? Get involved in courses through Udemy and Skillshare or take up vocational training and university based courses, Open University is a great resource to start looking for courses. By making yourself busy you will have less free time to waste scrolling on social media and your “screen time” will be used more efficiently and to really catch up on the topics or people you actually care about.

Lastly, the more you can become busier and take on hobbies and learn new skills, the less likely social media will trigger negative and self-destructive thoughts. Practising gratitude daily will help in becoming a more positive and optimistic individual.

Take care, now put your phone down!

Ways to Reduce Social Media Negativity