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“We don't have a choice on whether we do social media, the question is how well we do it? ― Erik Qualman
Social media is a great way to engage oneself with people and find new opportunities but is one aware that using such platforms inappropriately can have a negative impact? Research shows that the most popular social media platforms among students are WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, imo, Snapchat, MySpace and Skype. As such, social media is considered to be deteriorating students. Well do not worry- there is always a way where you can maintain a healthy practice.
1. Learning purpose: Why not make use of various social platforms as a means to acquire new things instead of scrolling over unnecessary feeds daily? In addition to your classroom learning, you can learn many things by connecting with different people, channel and boost your creativity out of it. You can even get in touch with diverse educational resources online to enhance your learning method. Interacting with peers will allow you to get new ideas and help you in expressing your opinions and thoughts openly.
2. Proper utilisation: Social media can be an effective tool if you know how to use it wisely. It is designed in a way which not only provides you with knowledge and information but also enables you to showcase your creativity and potential. There are many ways to make social media effective and productive – you can make good content videos, spend time writing blogs or network with people to build common interests.
3. Limiting screen time: According to a research conducted by Lerner Center for Public Health and Population Health, individuals who spend more time on social media are more likely to show signs of depression and self-isolation. If you find yourself spending more time browsing or scrolling over and over, it is time that you limit your social media time by setting a timer on certain apps and give more time to yourself through reflecting and analysing your thoughts and actions. As such, it will make you productive and wise in managing your time.
4. Physical activity: Why spend your entire time in virtual interaction when there are more other fun activities? It is always good to take a break in between and spend quality time with family and friends doing recreational activities or even going for picnics. Nowadays everyone is busy connecting with new people digitally leading to decreased interpersonal communication within families. Spending time with family can strengthen bonds, promote social relations and boost self- confidence. Physical exercise like household chores, yoga and sports are other ways to get away from the virtual world.
5. Avoid comparisons: Have you ever felt incompetent or not good enough when you see the accomplishments of others? Such emotions can trigger your self-esteem leading to more self doubt and negativity. Focusing on your strengths, abilities and other skills can help reduce comparisons. You can take the achievements of others as an inspiration and motivation to improve yourself. Practicing self gratitude can help bring in positive energy.
6. Don’t believe whatever you see online: With social media users more among the younger generation, it is necessary to be conscious of how you consume media. Remember! Not all the information that you see on digital platforms are all true. Circulating any false or misleading information can harm an individual’s private life as well as promote violence in many cases. It is important to be a responsible citizen and have media literacy – the ability to critically analyse messages disseminated on various media platforms. Side by side cross-checking any piece of information so as to avoid any disinformation being spread.
In this ever increasing digital age, it is important that users recognise and understand the potentials, drawbacks and concerns while using social media. Embrace practices that contribute to one’s overall well being. Remember to always be a responsible user that incorporates healthier social media habits that will lead to good mental health, acquire new knowledge, promote digital media and use its power for a social change.
Khumjongla Thongtsar
M.A. (Second Semester)
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Nagaland University