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Tips To Limit Your Social Media Intake While Working in The Digital Space

January 2, 2018

Tips To Limit Your Social Media Intake While Working in The Digital Space @itsjenniferrose

My husband thinks I spend too much time on Instagram and the funny thing is, compared to others I know, I think I’m on it way less. But, what does he know? LOL.  It can be a challenge when you work in the digital space to curb your appetite for social media. I always feel like I’m missing out on some news, inspiring content, etc. However, lately, I’ve been thinking more about the effects of social media and how to cut back even when it’s a core part of your work. Here are a few tips that have helped me along the way.

When I need to focus, I place my phone in my desk or put it face down (switch to airplane mode if you have to). This prevents me from being distracted and I can actually get some deep work done and enhance those creative juices.

I disabled my iMessage from my laptop. I know it’s hard, but you will feel so much better once you do. Remember, a text is a text not a phone call. We don’t HAVE to respond to a text message immediately.

After a certain time at night, I put my phone away. I am done for the day. For me it’s around 9:30/10pm. Decide what time is best for you. I have a habit of picking up my phone and looking at it just because, which is so dumb and signifies I’m too attached. When I am home at night I like to feel at peace and fully engaged with my husband, and this tip helps a lot.

Looking at social media as soon as you wake up is a no-no. Get YOU right first. The first hour of of my day is where I set the tone. Take this time to slowly wake-up, journal, pray or workout. I sometimes do a combination of all three or two of these activities. It puts me in the right mindset and keeps me focused and resilient life’s mishaps throughout the day.

Lastly, I turn my notifications off on some of my apps. And for a while, I did that with Instagram. It really helped to not feel like my mobile phone itself is Miranda Priestly from Devil Wears Prada.

I still slip sometimes and don’t adhere to these rules, but when I do follow the rules, I usually feel my best. It really is about taking control of your life and time. Sure, there are tons of studies done (with quite small sample sizes) that say specifically Instagram and Snapchat lead to disrupted mental health, causing symptoms of depression and anxiety. But, we won’t really have concrete research and evidence on the cause and effect of social media for some time. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather not wait until it’s too late, and we all find ourselves reading self-help books, trying to wean ourselves from Instagram.

I love social media and the beautiful creativity that it brings out in all of us, as well how it brings us closer together.  However, when abused it can be super distracting, and cause us to lose focus from reaching our highest potential and accomplishing goals. It’s time to get back to basics.  Don’t you agree?


Do you have tips on curbing your social media habit? Share in the comments!

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