How to Manage Your Social Media Usage

By Rafael Grandi

We all have that one time during the day when you have nothing to do and just start scrolling through social media.

Pointlessly scrolling but we still do it because we are bored . If you are someone like me you find yourself scrolling through TikTok for hours a day doing absolutely nothing. The newer generations have a shorter attention span and this is why social media has become such a treat to our health. 

Trust me, you are not the only person who does this! According to specialists about 10% of social media users in the United States are addicted to it, 40% of these being from ages 18-22. Managing social media usage is crucial for maintaining a healthy balance in your life and ensuring that it doesn't become overwhelming or detrimental to your well-being.

It can be hard for some people to manage their usage of social media so here are some tips to help you manage your social media usage

Set Goals 

Define your purpose for using social media. Are you using it for connecting with friends, staying informed, or networking? Having a clear intention will help you use social media more purposefully and avoid mindless scrolling. If you are just using for entertainment just think about other things you could be doing that would be as entertaining.

Keep Apps out of Sight

The same way you hide your snacks to avoid eating them all you should hide your apps in your phone. Try not putting them on your home screen but on folders so it is harder for you to see them and think about it. If you want to go above and beyond you can even delete the apps and only download them when you are going to use them in certain time. 

You could also disable notifications. Constant notifications can be distracting and pull you into a never-ending cycle of checking your social media accounts. Disable non-essential notifications or set specific times to check your social media platforms.

Use Productivity Apps

There are various apps and browser extensions available that can help you manage your social media usage. These tools allow you to track and limit the time you spend on social media platforms, helping you stay focused and productive. 

Forest is an app that lets you set a period of time when you commit to not use your phone. If you don’t go on apps during that time a virtual plant will grow that will give you points if you stick to your commitment.

Engage Offline

Make a conscious effort to engage in activities offline that bring you joy, such as hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing personal goals. Building a fulfilling offline life will naturally reduce your reliance on social media.

These are all some of the strategies you can use to better manage you phone time and help you promote a healthier and more engaged lifestyle.