With so many of us using our phones for connection during the pandemic, its imperative that we are mindful of our digital wellbeing during this time. Time locked away on our own can force us to look inwards and with social media busier than ever its important to not fall into the trap of comparing your isolated life to that of others. Not everybody wants to Tiktok! In this article, released before the pandemic, Abi Rose looks at how we can stay emotionally safe online.

Lately, the world of social media has been rocked by a series of huge scandals and worrying statistics, especially in regards to our young people. But is change on the horizon? 

Although many of us are addicted to spending time online, thought-provoking conversations started by influential figures are sure to spark a shift in our mindset. And while social media can expose us to negative side effects (including anxiety, loneliness and ‘fear of missing out’) it opens us up to a whole new world of community, inspiration and amazing ideas. 

As someone who’s worked in the world of social media for five years, I wanted to write a hopeful message of self-empowerment and share a few ideas to help you fall in love with the online world all over again. It all starts by doing things your way… 

Curate your feed 

To start repairing your relationship with social media, you need to look at the people you follow. It’s astonishing how many of us stick to following bloggers, brands and celebrities we don’t really have a connection with. Instead we should be following incredible creatives and inspirational individuals whose values and messages resonate with us. 

At the beginning of the year, I decided to make this exact change. I now only follow accounts that are affirming (artist and activist Sakina Saidi). Accounts that inspire me to think about my future (life coach Sophie French Creative). And accounts that make me look at the world in a new way (nature photographers Haarkon). It’s given my feed a total breath of fresh air and makes scrolling a much more mindful experience. 

Not sure where to start? I like to take inspiration from illustrator Emily Coxhead who suggests your Instagram feed should be like a magazine you can’t wait to flick through. Full of lovely things that matter to you. 

Learn the language of social media

A great next step is to take some time to actually learn how social media works. It makes complete sense to understand all its secrets - we use it everyday after all.  

I’m often shocked how many people are confused by social media language we see everyday. Resulting in them feeling manipulated into buying products, overwhelmed by ‘adverts’ and totally confused about social media smoke and mirrors.  

When we’re scrolling through social media, we shouldn’t forget that blogging or becoming an influencer is fast becoming a legitimate career choice (rather than a fun hobby). In fact, many influencers see their social media presence as a business. But rather than feel duped by this societal shift, perhaps we can look at this emerging industry with an open mind?

Don’t forget, blogging represents yet another industry dominated by women where men are still paid more. So giving your favourite fashion blogger a like or sharing a new vlogger’s latest video could mean a vote against the patriarchy and a step forward in a young woman’s career. But that doesn’t mean it hurts any less when you realise that product recommendation was really an advert in disguise - or that a blogger has let you down. 

If social media is going to be a part of your life, you need to become familiar with terms such as ‘boosted post’ (a post that a blogger or brand has paid to be seen by more people) and ‘affiliate link’ (a link where a blogger may ask you to ‘swipe up’ to buy a product, they then receive a commission on your purchase). Social media dictionaries like this are a good place to start. 

Learning more about social media will empower you to be more discerning about the content you’re engaging with. Once you can spot a ‘paid partnership’ from a candid snap and an ‘#ad’ from a handy idea, you’ll be able to enjoy your time online in a more honest, open and realistic way. 

Try a digital detox

Often, the best way to reset our thoughts about social media is to unplug altogether. At least for a little while. Studies show indulging in a digital detox can help with sleep patterns, improve our mental health and encourage us to be more present. It can also boost productivity, support your meditation practice and leave more time for creativity. 

But for some of us, switching off completely isn’t an option. Perhaps your boss requires you to have a LinkedIn page or having an Instagram feed is essential to your independent store’s success? In this case, a mini-detox may be more achievable. 

Start by setting simple boundaries such as no phones out during meal times. Or devote your weekends to getting back to nature - without snapping a photo for the ‘gram. And if you’re struggling to find ways to stay busy offline, independent magazines such as The Procrastination Paper are full of inspiration to get you started. 

You may also want to follow prominent Instagram users such as Allison Saddler, Africa Brooke and Alex Stedman, who have all been vocal about reevaluating their relationship with social media. We all have to begin somewhere…

What’s your social media story?

Are you making a conscious effort to be more thoughtful about the content you consume? Or perhaps you’ve deleted a social media app in response to all the negativity in the media? I’d love to hear your thoughts - let’s start a conversation about the online world and make some positive changes together. 

About the author

Abi Rose is a writer and social media expert who lives on the edge of the Peak District. When she’s not working with fashion beauty and lifestyle brands, you’ll find her curled up with a good book. Her ‘to be read’ pile is outta control! Follow her on Instagram or take a look at her website for more lifestyle tips and social media advice.