Addiction to social networks can be described as the most common disease of the 21st century. Technological progress has imposed on the inhabitants of the planet Earth the belief that they must always be up to date with everything that is happening in the world.
A group of former employees at Facebook, Google and Apple recently released a handbook The truth about technology (Truth About Tech). This one is dedicated to educating people about the methods tech companies use to keep users coming back.
Former Google employee Tristan Harris believes that companies are causing a lot of damage by doing so. Still, it reveals something strategies that are useful in minimizing the time people spend on social media.
1. Turn off notifications.
When we look at videos of the lives of other people, mostly celebrities, on social networks, we often start to feel sorry for ourselves. Turning off notifications will make it possible to not always see photos of friends, for example from vacations, and thus contribute to reducing the level of envy.
2. Find hobbies.
By devoting more time to other things, e.g. playing sports, we will completely forget what is happening on social networks.
3. Don't use Instagram when you're emotional.
Professor at Washington University dr. Team Bono advises people not to use Instagram when they are overwhelmed by negative emotions. Comparing with other people's photos and posts will worsen the mood even more.
4. Treat social media like Netflix.
Humans spend an inordinate amount of time on media. We should perceive social networks in the same way as Netflix series. Every Facebook or Instagram user tells their own story, which is edited and not a reflection of reality.
5. Measure the time you spend online.
Observe your social media behavior and compare it to how you feel when you are not active online. If your presence on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter doesn't help you feel better, it's imperative that you spend more time on other things.
6. Delete apps from your phone.
This is a great way to treat social media addiction. You will be forced to access web pages through an internet browser, which will be reflected in the reduction of time devoted to social networks.
