22/05/2024
𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 by Dr. Clinton Kadochi
In today's popular culture, envy, strife, and jealousy are generated from social media and this has been noted to be major cause of stress for most people.
Social media has a double-edged sword, with both positive and negative effects.
It is a tool of impact: bridging boundaries, connecting with friends and family, sharing knowledge, and marketing businesses.
On the other hand, it encourages low self-image and body image insecurities for many, and it can trap individuals in a cycle of fame and popularity, causing intimidation and envy.
I’ve had different conversations with people, and it is clear that most people's social life standards are driven by the standardized course of life spread across on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. The desire for validation is quite strong and contagious.
The effect of social media is so strong that many people have gone as far as borrowing money to buy a car they weren’t financially prepared for, simply because they saw someone else buy it. Now they hate the car because of the financial stress.
Others have ended relationships for a 20% that Jellita didn’t have, but Jane on Instagram seemed to have. Later, they regretted it because they finally realized they’d rather have stayed with the 80% satisfaction from Jellita and not fantasized and coveted the 20% insecurity they assumed Jane would meet.
Many have ended good jobs to pursue entrepreneurship ventures because someone seemed to make good figures and a comfortable life. Only to painfully realize that it’s not everyone’s formula for wealth creation. You need grit, patience and strategic thinking.
Honestly, the level of peer pressure is burdensome in these social media streets, especially considering the intimidation that may come from LinkedIn if you’re not self-aware.
Here are some ways I’ve used to be stress-proof from social media pressure:
1. PUT YOUR BEST PERCEPTION FORWARD: Everyone puts their best foot forward on social media, this means you’ll need to put your best perception forward. Don’t allow yourself to be swallowed up by the glamour. Question your perception…. Instead of being intimidated, be inspired. You have nothing to prove but everything to improve.
2. REGULATE YOUR NEWS FEED: Be in control of what you see and watch. Some years ago, I switched my facebook settings to only accessing my page and other pages that I follow. Right now, I don’t see any friends accounts and whatever they post. I am content with the pages I follow. I am not up-to date with trending memes, TikTok dances, gossip or drama.
3. HAVE AN AGENDA: Define your purpose for being on social media. Truthfully speaking, the time for making new friends from social media is long gone. Everyone has an agenda! Don’t be a victim! There is an intriguing documentary on Netflix called, the Social Dilemma that has exposed the agenda of programming and making people dependent and hooked to the addiction of scrolling. Answer the questions; what am I doing on social media and what am I benefiting? Are you using it to grow your brand or business? What value is your social media presence offering?
If you’re not paying anything on social media then you’re absolutely the product.
Be content and don’t be a victim on social media. Stress less and live more.
“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Happy Sunday!
- Dr. CK
What lesson or point stands out for you in this post? See you in the comments section.
