Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword

Introduction

• Social Media Overview
  • Around 200 platforms
  • Approximately 2.7 billion users
• Key Question: Are users benefiting or allowing platforms to control them?

Human Behavior and Social Media

• Tendency to Blame: People often blame external factors for negative behaviors rather than self-reflection.
• Impact of Social Media: Changed the world; can't revert back to prior norms.

Negative Impacts of Social Media

• Feeds as Stressors:
  • Constant exposure to negativity and unrealistic standards.
  • Fake smiles and photoshopped images contribute to low self-esteem.
• Self-Reflection: Acknowledging personal responsibility in how social media affects us.

Personal Journey

• Initial Experience: Struggled with self-esteem and family time, influenced by social media.
• Turning Point: Realization that the platforms aren't to blame; it's about personal choices.
• Detox from Social Media:
  • Tried complete abandonment but found moderation to be the answer.
  • started curating a positive feed to uplift rather than bring down self-esteem.

Steps Towards Positive Change

• Conscious Choices:
  • Unfollow harmful influencers and follow positive role models.
  • Focus on authenticity and self-acceptance.
• Impact of Environment: Surrounding oneself with positive influences enhances self-love and respect.

Lessons Learned

• Patience: True happiness and awareness take time and effort.
• Social Media Usage:
  • Avoid addiction by being selective about whom to follow.
• Personal Growth: Enjoyed experiences without the need for validation through posts.

Closing Thoughts

• Empowerment: Users must take responsibility for their social media engagement.
• Final Advice: Explore personal solutions, recognize the influence of online relationships, and maintain a balance with social media.
• Conclusion: Aim to step out of negativity and into positivity while engaging with social media.