If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, you probably didn’t care too much about what others were up to in their life. Yes, we heard things but weren’t actively seeking information (unless you had a crush, that’s another story). Now that’s what most do, and for HOURS.
Think about what social media is and how it has changed our lives. Don’t get me started on reality TV—one ailment at a time. Social media seems to have given us an entitlement mentality. We feel like we must know and share everything, from what we eat to the latest news of our lives. Things as small as a run to the coffee shop. Here’s the thing. There is nothing inherently wrong with sharing our life. However, we shouldn’t force that on the world around us. Not in a way of having an account. People choose not to create social media accounts.
However, social media can make one feel as though they have to participate in the social norms of sharing. The highlights of our life is not required for life to be fulfilling. There are many negative and positive aspects of social media. Let’s start with negative so we can end on a positive note.
Negative affects of social media:
- Jealousy – One of the major negative effects of social media is being left with a feeling of not living on the greener side of life. It can cause mental inferior associations that are simply not true. No one has a perfect life. Everyone has struggles. Whether it is with family, self or friends and work or career life.
- False View of Life – Pretentiousness runs rampant in society. Social media aids in that unhealthy habit. Trying to impress can be subtle and often mislabeled. We call it other things but the next time you post stop and ask yourself why. This only works if you’re a self aware and honest person.
- Competitive – Nothing gets people moving and going like competition. The payoff of likes and clicks equals popularity and popularity equals validity to many. The mind and ego will whisper sweet nothings in our heart “How many likes did I get?” “They got more and we posted the same thing.” “Who liked this post? Why didn’t they like mine?” If you feel yourself going back to check this type of information out after you posted on social media. Welcome to the club of competition and lacking in self worth.
Not all things are inherently bad including social media. Check out this reel.
Agreed. ✓
If we use social media with a purpose, it can be incredibly impactful. Even if you choose not to post these kinds of content, being present provides an opportunity to share something that could potentially inspire someone to consider Christ, reflect on their faith, or offer words of encouragement. This platform can truly help lead someone to a positive place in their journey.
Here are some positive aspects of social media.
- Community – finding like minded people that believe what you believe can be beneficial. It’s encouraging to see others how others navigate life in their space in the world. Literally, you can build a community that is from around the world! The beauty of social media…pretty cool.
- Inspiration – We don’t know who needs what or when. Yet, God does. You can be sitting on someone’s inspiration to do something you have already experienced. We should kick gatekeeping to the curb; that’s the worlds way of doing things.
- Get Information Out in One Post (Time saver) – This can be extremely valuable not only for business but for family announcements. Funeral arrangements, graduation announcements, marriage proposals are all some of the reasons social media can be worthwhile. It can save time and often distress in trying to repeat the same information repeatedly.
All of these are worth considering how social media is impacting your life. If you can keep it in the right context with the right heart it can be beneficial in the end.
