For better or for worse, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Different platforms certainly have their benefits (connecting with others, creativity, etc.) but there are also significant disadvantages to having such ready access to limitless information and entertainment.
I’m not writing to tell you that social media is bad, or that the benefits outweigh the cons. I want you to take a look at both sides of the equation and draw your own conclusions as to how social media plays a role in your own life. Let’s break it down:
Benefits
Connection with others: Social media allows us to connect with friends and family, even if they are far away. Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram allow us to stay in-the-know as to what others are up to, allowing us to further develop relationships without the need for direct face-to-face-contact. Connecting with friends online can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Access to information: Social media provides easy access to a wealth of information on a variety of topics. These resources encourage curiosity and broaden our knowledge and understanding of the world. It gives us the opportunity to learn about other people and cultures all across the globe.
Creativity: Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok spark creativity and allow users to showcase their talents. In some cases, users can even generate revenue from their profiles and create their own online businesses.
Networking: For young professionals, social media can be a valuable tool for networking and building relationships that can be useful in the future. It can also serve as a way to research jobs, interact with companies, and explore potential opportunities.
Awareness: Social media can help to raise awareness about important issues, such as social justice and environmental concerns. Online resources can provide information about such issues, as well as offer ways for us to show our support.
Drawbacks
Cyberbullying: Since users can hide behind their online profiles, social media can be a breeding ground for cyberbullying. Negative interactions can have serious consequences for the mental health and well-being of those involved.
Addiction: Social media can be addictive, leading to a decrease in physical activity, as well as overall health and wellbeing. Many platforms are designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible.
Privacy concerns: Information that is collected online can be used for targeted advertising and other purposes. Additionally, social media can be used for scams that attempt to extract personal information from users.
False information: Social media can be a source of false information, which can be harmful and misleading. It can be difficult to tell what is real and what is fake, which often leads to miscommunication and confrontation.
Comparison: Content posted on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, as users compare themselves to others. People often post edited outtakes of their lives to create an image of themselves that doesn’t necessarily reflect who they are.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, social media is complicated. What really makes the difference, then, is how you use it.
With moderation, positivity, and an understanding that you can’t take all content at face value, online can be a great place to connect with others and explore creativity. Without that skill set, you can fall victim to comparison and addiction.
It’s important to be aware of both the risks and benefits of social media use so that you can decide what role it plays in your own life. No matter what, make sure you are prioritizing your health and well-being!
One thing that has been lost as we have moved into the technology age is the power of phone calls! While texting is easier, faster, and does not put pressure on someone to answer it immediately, giving someone a phone call can show you care!