Being the world’s number 1 social media user doesn’t mean we will not be responsible enough on using these. While we are embracing now the digital world, how can we prevent ourselves from the pitfalls of addiction? Social Media expert from University of Santo Tomas (UST) Philippe Jose Hernandez shared some of the most useful ways on how to avoid addiction to digital and social media which he gathered from multi disciplines:
1) Don’t forget that you have a real life outside your virtual life.
Don’t take social media as your major reason for you to escape the reality of the world. Remember, not all things in the digital world are true. Embrace realities and enjoy life outside.
2) Have hobbies that don’t require computer technology
There are still some things that do not need computer technology: the natural walking and jogging while having encounter with nature, swimming, talking personally, cycling, and other activities. Don’t become the slave of technology
3) Go on a social media detox when you’re down and tired
Do not depend on social media all throughout the day. Spend your extra time chatting personally with your loved ones and closed friends. Chatting virtually makes a message less personal and less emotional.
4) When in social functions, avoid checking your phone
It’s also a way of respecting the things and the lives of others. Try mingling and experience the fun of gathering. You are there to socialize personally, not to socialize virtually.
5) Monitor your social media use (some gadgets now have functions that monitor how much time you spend on gadgets in a week). Keep it low.
Check yourself fi you’re using too much gadgets everyday. Know when to go and when to say No! in using these.
6) Learn to shut off your notifications and the signal/reception, especially when you need to focus on something or just relax.
When you need to accomplish something, or meeting other people, stop looking and spending time on phones, and browsing the Internet. Try to relax and talk naturally.
7) Never prioritize social media over your work, school and family responsibilities.
If it is work, it’s work. If it is school it’s school. If it is family or friends, it’s family and friends. Never infuse the use of social media when you are in the real world.
8) Uninstall applications that take up a lot of your time (e.g. games, social networking, etc.)
Aside from occupying the largest space on your phone, it mght also catch your attention to open the apps always. So if you believe it’s unnecessary, cut them out.
9) Try not to be eaten up by FOMO or the Fear of Missing Out. There’s also what psychologists call “JOMO” or Joy of Missing Out.
Social media and the digital world is not the be-all-end-all of the game. Life is there outside. See the world and appreciate life in reality.
10) Set a personal limit for your social media use and stick to it. It will also help if you share this with someone who’ll call your attention if you go past your limit.
Know how to put boundaries. Using social media from time to time is okay. But spending almost half of your 24-hour cycle is a big No! No!. Enjoy life.
