Navigating the internet can feel like a lot. There’s cute animal videos, plant parent groups, inspiring fashionistas and information on many #movements. But there’s also plenty of bad news, hate speech and harassment, catfishing, misinformation and more. Here are four tips to help you get started
Social media is designed to be addicting
Design choices have been made to slowly but surely keep us locked in
- The onus isn’t just on us as users but also on our partners (the companies) to encourage healthier behaviors
- Consider how much of your social media behavior is yours and how much is influenced by the medium itself
Take breaks as needed
It can be helpful to incorporate breaks into your social media routine to maintain a sense of balance.
- These little breaks function the same way a sabbatical or vacation from work does. Take some time away to disconnect and be alone, be bored and gather your own thoughts and opinions.
Your relationship with social media is real
Treat it as a real relationship and treat it as meaningful
- Ask yourself: What does a healthy relationship look like to me? What needs am I trying to meet right now?
- Scan your body – how do you feel after an hour online? Is that too much time?
Be an active participant in your relationship
Marie Kondo has a way of tidying up your social media
- What accounts are bringing you joy, helping you learn, challenging you, or otherwise bringing value to your life? Which ones aren’t?
- Turn off notifications to have more control and block or mute content you don’t want to see
