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Do you feel drained after visiting social media?

In 2021, world-renowned researchers conducted a study that, among other things, explores the best strategies for combating online burnout and social media fatigue.

1. Practice mindfulness and develop offline hobbies:

We know what you’re thinking: “That’s obvious!” But sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. Take the time to relax and disconnect from social media by practicing mindfulness, meditation, or other relaxing activities. Finding a balance between your online and offline life is important. You’ll feel much better after developing hobbies and activities that don’t require technology, such as gardening, cooking, or activism (link to a cause)! Go ahead, give a nod to the obvious and enjoy moments away from screens.

2. Avoid social comparison:

Don’t feel guilty: It’s important to understand that no one intentionally seeks to fall into the trap of social comparison. It’s a natural and common behavior, but it can be harmful to your mental and emotional well-being.

The study found that social comparison on social media can lead to feelings of inferiority and increase social media fatigue. This tendency to compare yourself to others can make you feel less accomplished and less satisfied with your own life.

To combat social comparison, focus on your own achievements and goals; this can reduce the pressure to conform to others’ expectations and decrease fatigue. Take the time to note the things for which you are grateful in your life. This will help you concentrate on the positive aspects of your life and decrease the need for social comparison.

3. Diversify your online activities:

Diversification isn’t just for investments, it also applies to our relationships! The study shows that varied social interactions can help reduce social media fatigue. In other words, join groups and online forums that interest you and where members support each other. These spaces allow you to connect with people who share your passions.

Cultivate strong relationships and friendships outside of social media, and seek meaningful and positive online interactions. This approach can help you feel less isolated and reduce social media fatigue.

4. Protect your privacy:

You may not realize it, but online privacy has a significant impact on your mental and emotional well-being. The results of numerous studies have shown that privacy concerns are positively linked to social media fatigue. This means that when you are more worried about your online privacy, you are also more likely to experience fatigue due to social media use.

To mitigate social media fatigue while protecting your privacy, focus on these 3 practical steps you can execute right now:

  1. Adjust privacy settings: Take the time to check and modify the privacy settings of each social media platform you use. Ensure that only trusted contacts can view your posts, photos, and personal information.
  2. Revoke access to apps that don’t need your information: Carefully review the permissions granted to third-party apps connecting to your social media accounts. Cut off their access to your information if they seem suspicious or if you no longer use these apps.
  3. Limit the information you share: Think carefully about the information you share on social media and avoid disclosing sensitive personal details, such as your address, phone number, or financial information.

By focusing on these practical and accessible steps, you can protect your privacy and reduce socialmedia fatigue, allowing you to enjoy social media platforms more peacefully and in a balanced way.

5. Set time limits and establish a schedule:

Although this strategy requires a certain level of discipline and commitment, it can really make a difference in reducing social media fatigue. Fortunately, most phones offer solutions to limit app usage time and restrict access.

Set a duration for social media use and break times. Establish a schedule for using social media more efficiently and in a balanced way. Here are some tips for implementing this strategy:

  • Use your phone’s tools: Explore your phone’s settings to discover options for limiting app usage time. You can set daily limits for social media apps and receive alerts when you’ve reached your limit.
  • Schedule regular breaks: Get into the habit of giving yourself regular breaks away from your phone and social media. These rest periods help recharge your mental and emotional batteries.
  • Establish social media-free periods: Set times of the day when you abstain completely from using social media, for example during meals or before bedtime. This can help you sleep better and fully enjoy interactions with others.

In this article, we explored a recent study that examines the best strategies for combating social media fatigue. To reduce online burnout, researchers suggest:

  • developing offline hobbies,
  • avoiding comparison,
  • diversifying online activities,
  • protecting privacy,
  • setting time limits and establishing a schedule for social media use.

By implementing these strategies, you can manage your time on social media more consciously, reduce fatigue, and enjoy a more peaceful and balanced online experience.