My first blog will be concerning an area, that needs more attention. I'm talking about the dark side of social media.
There is no question about the fact that various social media platforms can be used for a good cause. The straightforwardness in keeping in touch with others and arranging different types of events, gives social media a strong foundation. But underneath that foundation, things can be messed up.
It is no secret, that most people like to be complimented. In the same way as a dog is craving for the owners compliments, people on social media platforms, are searching for the same kind of attention from other social media users. This can lead to an addiction, harmless in the beginning, but harmful in the long run. When you start to get praising comments and tons of likes on your pictures, it makes you feel good. But this feeling of happiness doesn't last for long. You want more. You need more.
One day you are checking your Instagram feed, and realize how Miranda has got 200 likes on her picture, whilst your picture "only" got 150 likes. You feel bad. You start to question your appearance. Maybe you should post a new picture? Yes, do that! And so it has begun. The grueling comparison of yourself to others.
Things don't get easier by the fact that celebrities use social media, both for promoting them selves as well as promoting companies. They show their lavish lifestyle. Subconsciously, you are picking up influences. You want to be like them. Then the truth hits you in the face, you can't be like them... The distorting information you absorb makes you feel bad.
By proving to others that you are an active person, you will generate more "fame". At least that is what you think. You need to have an active lifestyle to not be portrayed as boring. You comment on other persons pictures that they are the most beautiful persons in the world, hoping for them to return the favor next time you post a picture.
These are a few downsides of social media. Competing for likes and comments is one serious problem. I don't want to generalize a certain group of people, but it is quite clear, that young people are the most vulnerable for this kind of unhealthy competition. This said, I have personal experiences of middle-aged people reminding me to go and like their pictures. An even bigger issue, is getting the feeling of being left out or not having enough things to do all the time.
To round things up, use social media wisely. Don't beg for likes and followers desperately. Don't think that you are not equally good if you spend an evening doing nothing. Most importantly, be yourself!
There is no question about the fact that various social media platforms can be used for a good cause. The straightforwardness in keeping in touch with others and arranging different types of events, gives social media a strong foundation. But underneath that foundation, things can be messed up.
It is no secret, that most people like to be complimented. In the same way as a dog is craving for the owners compliments, people on social media platforms, are searching for the same kind of attention from other social media users. This can lead to an addiction, harmless in the beginning, but harmful in the long run. When you start to get praising comments and tons of likes on your pictures, it makes you feel good. But this feeling of happiness doesn't last for long. You want more. You need more.
One day you are checking your Instagram feed, and realize how Miranda has got 200 likes on her picture, whilst your picture "only" got 150 likes. You feel bad. You start to question your appearance. Maybe you should post a new picture? Yes, do that! And so it has begun. The grueling comparison of yourself to others.
Things don't get easier by the fact that celebrities use social media, both for promoting them selves as well as promoting companies. They show their lavish lifestyle. Subconsciously, you are picking up influences. You want to be like them. Then the truth hits you in the face, you can't be like them... The distorting information you absorb makes you feel bad.
By proving to others that you are an active person, you will generate more "fame". At least that is what you think. You need to have an active lifestyle to not be portrayed as boring. You comment on other persons pictures that they are the most beautiful persons in the world, hoping for them to return the favor next time you post a picture.
These are a few downsides of social media. Competing for likes and comments is one serious problem. I don't want to generalize a certain group of people, but it is quite clear, that young people are the most vulnerable for this kind of unhealthy competition. This said, I have personal experiences of middle-aged people reminding me to go and like their pictures. An even bigger issue, is getting the feeling of being left out or not having enough things to do all the time.
To round things up, use social media wisely. Don't beg for likes and followers desperately. Don't think that you are not equally good if you spend an evening doing nothing. Most importantly, be yourself!
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