Put Social Media To Good Use
You take in news, memes, funny videos, home decorating and fashion tips, and trending reels and Tik Toks…
It may feel like this is the perfect way to unwind in your down time or after a long day.
It’s harmless fun, right?
But interestingly enough, the harms of social media are well documented. It can be addictive, damaging, and toxic. Watching the highlights of other people’s lives and chasing the validation of likes and comments can destroy your self-esteem and steal hours of your day. Now, more than ever, social media provides a platform for echo chambers, division (even among family and friends), which inevitably leads to anxiety and even depression.
However, social media can be a way to connect, especially for older people, those in rural areas, people with disabilities, or people who can’t find others with similar interests nearby. With the right approach, social media can be a positive and productive experience that fosters a sense of community. The isolation we’ve all experienced over the past year can also be semi-alleviated through skillful use of social media in appropriate doses.
Social media can enhance your life, but it takes work to avoid common social media traps.
---> Here are some ways to make social media a positive force in your life.
*** Organize a local service project ***
It's incredible what an Instagram post or story can do. Maybe it's creating a Facebook group for your school Service and Key Club. Think about organizing a local service project and then announce it on social media. Connect everyone on Instagram or Facebook Invite so everyone can come and take part.
*** Start a food drive or volunteer at your local food bank ***
Food banks everywhere have seen an increased demand for services and fewer donations during these times. You can change that by rallying a food drive through your social channels. Get all of your IG influencer friends to rally for the cause, keep the invite open and let's go. Even re-sharing an Instagram post from your local food bank goes a long way.
*** Ask for donations of clothes for a local homeless shelter serving families ***
Clean clothes, shoes, and warm jackets are mean a lot to families in need. Some of us have quickly outgrown clothes or have too much of something. What if you got all of your TikTok friends to bring clean clothes to donate to other students and families? Most schools have a donation box where they'll reallocate clothes to students in need.
*** Raise awareness of a cause like Mental Health, Self-Care ***
Instagram is a great place to promote a cause! You can use a photo or video message to educate, raise awareness, and ask others to get involved.
*** Spread the word of what's already happening ***
You don't have to reinvent the wheel. There are tons of great causes and just as many events to participate in. Tell your friends about events in your area for a cause you care about – maybe a race to raise money for cancer, or a book drive, or even a dance-a-thon!
*** Get rid of negativity ***
Lots of us start social media accounts and then, over the years, accumulate connections and friends and follow accounts that become irrelevant to our lives, which could impact our mental wellbeing. You may not even realise how much someone you follow is influencing how you feel about yourself until you take an active inventory of your emotions and reactions. Make sure your feelings are constructive and you should be good to go!
*** Connect with loved ones ***
Social media is a great way to stay in touch with your friends and family, whether they live nearby or across the globe.
Use your social media channels to reach out and see how your loved ones are doing, share personal stories and photos and remind you of the important people in your life.
*** Follow and share inspiring stories ***
Follow and share inspiring stories that make you feel confident and positive about your life. If a friend or influencer is sharing negative content that makes you anxious, sad or insecure, remove that person from your news feed.
***Remember to Create a balance.
Create a balance between using social media and focusing on what’s in front of you. Take time to connect with your loved ones not only through technology, but also through face-to-face interactions. This will help you be mindful of what’s real and most important to you.