We are the content we consume.
Assessment
Do you have that one song or playlist that brings out those inner demons? You know, the one that reminds you of a very dark moment in your life.
How about those days when you endlessly scroll through social media?
Lessons Learned
Music:
I find it funny that even though that song(s) put us in a dark place, we still LOVE to listen to them. It gives us sense of nostalgia, a false sense of empowerment, and it can be addictive.
For me, it’s Boiler by Limp Bizkit. In high school I used to listen to this on repeat! Blasting it through my headphones. Externally I would present a demeanor that was angry, and unapproachable. Internally I hoped that someone could hear the lyrics, relate to them, and join me in my temporary misery.
Misery loves company, right?
Social Media:
For me, it alternates between Instagram and TikTok. Sometimes I’ll catch myself opening up the apps subconsciously throughout the day. As soon as I open my phone, like clockwork, I’m moments away from the death scroll.
Social media is great tool for catching up with distant friends, family, or even business, but come on…we don’t use it for that. We use it as a self-fulfilling prophecy, posting photos just to value our worth based on likes. The endless scrolling forces us to compare ourselves to other people’s lives as they post their best (real or fake) moments.
If you related to this, lets dive into how to manage it, and make these work to our advantage.
Active Countermeasures:
1.) Create Playlists
- Note music that you listen to when you are in a good mood and create a playlist.
- Play this music when you’re having a bad day and watch your mood start to change.
- Do the same for music that makes you upset and use this to your advantage.
- Listen to the music that makes you upset when working out (heightens intensity).
- Tell yourself that you are about to fight your demons.
- You will feel accomplished at the end of the workout, but it’s important to switch the music back to the good vibes playlist afterwards. ‘
2.) Replace Music with Podcasts
3.) Set an App Time Limit
- Both android and apple have custom settings that allow you to set a timer for your apps.
- Android – Instructions
- Apple – Instructions
- This will take some discipline, because you’ll have the option to ignore the timer. Do your best not to.
4.) Be Intentional
- Before opening a social media app, ask yourself why you are logging on.
- If you are trying to avoid scrolling endlessly then set boundaries.
- I am going to check my messages.
- I am going to make a post.
- I am going to add something to my story.
- Mute or unfollow people that don’t bring you positive energy with their content.
- Follow people who post content that fits your interests.
5.) Be Realistic
- Most people post themselves at their best.
- Comparing yourself to an online persona can be self-destructive.
- Not all content holds truth.
6.) Connect in Person
- Use social to make genuine connections in person.
- This helps avoid social burnout.
7.) Start Reading
- Instead of scrolling, start reading a book that revolves around something you’re interested in.
- This is advice coming from someone who used to hate to read!
- Check out my personal book suggestions here.