Caught in the Net of Ideals: 3 Ways to Escape Materialism on Social Media

How to find happiness? Certainly not on social networks. In reality, you will rarely feel better after visiting just these.

How to find happiness has become a question for many, and many people look for answers on social networks. These have become ubiquitous in our lives, as they offer an opportunity to connect and have fun. However, recent studies also shed light on the darker side of this digital revolution. The role of social media in promoting materialism and dissatisfaction among users.

The study, led by psychologist dr. Phillip Ozimek at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum in Germany, found some disturbing findings regarding the relationship between social media use, materialism and life satisfaction. The study, which included more than 1,200 participants who spend an average of two hours a day on social media, revealed a worrying trend. Those with materialistic way of thinking were more likely to experience anxiety due to social media use. As a result, they were also less satisfied with their lives.

Showing off assets

The allure of material goods and wealth, which is also kept alive by social media, has led many individuals to of constant comparison and consumption. Materialistic individuals often use social media as a platform to show off their possessions and compare themselves to others, building a cycle of envy and resentment.

Our innate tendency to compare ourselves to others is rooted in our evolutionary psychology, and it only increases in the digital age. With access to billions of users worldwide, each presenting carefully curated snapshots of their lives, the pressure to achieve more is immense. However, what we often forget is that social media content tends to only show pleasant images of people, while purposely leaving out the daily internal struggles and failures. And they are part of life too.

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How to find happiness?

So how can we overcome the pitfalls of social media and make room for happiness and fulfillment in our lives?

1. Be grateful

Take time each day to appreciate the blessings in your life, big or small. By focusing on gratitude, you can shift your focus away from material goods to an abundance of non-material joys.

2. Practice kindness and charity

Numerous studies have shown that acts of kindness and generosity to others create lasting happiness. Instead of pursuing material goods, invest your time and resources in helping those in need.

3. Cultivate self-acceptance

Accept who you are, including your faults and weaknesses. Self-acceptance acts as a buffer against the negative effects of social media comparison, allowing you to find satisfaction within yourself rather than through external validation.