I hope you’re having a great summer. Although, I would love to go into more details about my Maryam Nassir Zadeh inspired look, I will attempt to do something different from my usual post. I wanted to touch on self-care and social media. A subject that will become much more relevant given the current explosion of social media, especially now that this medium is becoming such a huge part of our lives. All our favorite brands and everyone is on social media these days, as consumers we are bombarded with content everyday. Research has shown that social media platforms such as Facebook can greatly affect your mental health. In fact, there is mounting evidence that social media increases depression and loneliness. Here are five practices to help with self-care in the age of social Media.
Don’t compare your self to others
It’s quite fascinating to see images of all the designer clothes, vacations and opulent lifestyles displayed constantly on social media . But remember those are snippets of another person’s life that is edited to create that effect. So, don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself and circumstances to someone else’s illusions.
Push the unfollow button
it can be healthy to admire another person, that is human. But it can be something different altogether when you are bent on admiring someone else maybe that you assume that their lives are better than yours which lead you to feel unhappy with yourself. At any point in time, don’t hesitate to unfollow anyone who makes you feel bad about yourself.
Have other ventures outside social media
Find a way to occupy yourself with other hobbies or projects. Personally, It would be nice to be insta-famous but honestly, I have a real life outside of my instagram or facebook accounts that exist in the real world . There are other side hustles, projects and even pressing personal problems that take up my time as well, so posting my fabulous outfits on my instagram account or blog is not the end all be all of my existence.
Pride in your Individuality
Don’t be like the Joneses. This applies to everyone in life not just social media influencers or bloggers. Everyone one wants to feel like they belong, so this one may be particularly difficult. Avoid falling into the trap of keeping up. As a blogger it is very easy to get caught up with the keeping up trap. Everyone has a Gucci belt therefore I must be seen in the same Gucci belt. I have to remember to stay true to myself and my own aesthetic. Honestly, having a strong sense of self and pride in my individuality is what has kept me going in my real life and on social media. As a blogger/influencer, how do you stand out if your style is like everyone else out there.
Avoid burn out
Don’t be active on all forms of Social Media at the same time. Due to my blog niche, Instagram is my favorite so, I’m not as active on Facebook. I rarely use twitter and you will not find me on Snapchat. I’m on WhatsApp but get easily irritated by all those chain viral videos .
Bonus Tip: Don’t obsess about followers on Social Media. If you are interested in a large following then I suggest you put in the work. I know that it is easier said than done. Focus on a strategy to consistently create content that stands out, yet add value for your readership.
If you have other ideas on how you deal with self-care in the age of social media, please leave your comments below.
