Many of us use social media to connect with others for personal or professional reasons, and it is an important part of our daily lives.
When you have an unhealthy attachment to social media, you will find yourself scrolling mindlessly whenever you have the opportunity.
Here are six warning signs to be aware of:
1. You can't sit still unless you're holding an electronic device.
If you don't carry your phone with you at all times, you'll be fine. Going for a walk without your phone is acceptable. You don't have to wait in line with the company of social media. You don't need to check in with other people when your own life is going on all around you. Boredom will not kill you; remaining silent is acceptable.
2. You check Facebook or Instagram first thing in the morning.
Twitter, for example. Or whatever platform allows you to lose track of time and space for an hour or two. Yes, you do waste that much time. You're probably going to lose more. Perhaps you could greet those you live with before beginning your daily scroll.
3. Instead of going to bed, you reach for your phone and begin scrolling.
And before you know it, you're going to bed a half-hour, an hour, or even two hours later than planned. Then, because you didn't get enough sleep, you're cranky when you wake up in the morning. Before you go to bed, put the phone down. Grab a book to read before going to bed.
4. Envy begins to bubble up like a bad meal that won't go away.
You start playing the comparison game without even realising it. But it comes quickly, and it packs a punch. Like when you start telling yourself that everyone is in love. Or everyone is having a baby. Or everyone has more money than you, more successful than you, and more happiness than you. They don't. Social media is a curated reel. Remember that people post what they want you to see.
5. You post everything on social media.
You don't have to share every single moment of your life on the internet. You also shouldn't post the mundane either. It's fine to share your joys, but it's also fine to keep them to yourself for a while. It doesn't mean it didn't happen just because you didn't post about it. You may keep whatever you want close to your vest.
6. You pay more attention to your screens than to those around you.
Stop scrolling, posting, and participating in the comments section of whatever is consuming your time. There's nothing wrong with having debates or opinions – just do it in person but don't overdo it.
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