Too often, I see young people scrolling endlessly, comparing their lives to carefully curated highlights of others, chasing likes for validation, and measuring self-worth by followers and comments.
I won’t lie, I have done the same, and I am now trying really hard to get myself out of the constant cycle, as it affects my mental health and clarity.
I believe that many have lost the ability to sit in silence, be present in the moment, or enjoy face-to-face conversations without the constant urge to check their phones.
This addiction comes at a cost.
Mental health issues, disrupted sleep, reduced attention spans and weakened personal connections are becoming increasingly common.
Real life – with all its beauty, challenges and spontaneity – is slowly being replaced by filtered realities and empty distractions, and it makes me sad.
I noticed the other day when I went for dinner with a friend and she wouldn’t get off her phone. And I questioned if other people think the same of me?
It is time to take a step back.
Learn to disconnect in order to reconnect – with yourself, your goals, nature and with the people around you.
Try spending a few hours a day without your phone.
Go for a walk without posting it.
Have a meal without photographing it.
Talk to someone without checking your notifications.
In all honesty, with my job, I find it hard to disconnect. The constant messages and alerts coming in, it drives me crazy sometimes. But I have been trying my best to be present for work and myself as well.
I have come to learn that social media isn’t going anywhere and it’s not inherently bad, but it’s about how you use it, and it is important to set boundaries.
Elena Lord
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