There is always something new about social media. Whether it is a new app, a new lingo, or a new craze to jump into the bandwagon to. If you love being up to date with all these, let “over-wired” be added to your growing list of words that you’ve picked up from the internet. From the word itself, you’d get the idea that it connotes a negative thing. How would you know if you’re over-wired? Classic bodily tell-tale signs include: headaches, back and hip pain, prolonged slouching, and fatigued fingers. Other signs are just as crucial although less obvious: becoming easily frustrated and irritated, negativity, and impatience.
So you might be wondering: Now that I know that I’m over-wired, what now? Here’s what. You’ll have to be proactive about it.
BALANCE: Do realize that while your online life is crucial as it is your main means of work, your online life should not be taking over your entirety. You are blessed with a real life which you need to live out. Cultivate some time to get up, make something with your hands like a craft or pick up an old hobby, accomplish some household chores, step out for a little bit, and gaze up the sky. Appreciate what’s real and outside of the screen. Re-establish your sense of balance. You wouldn’t want to miss out on the real thing. When you go online, also try to limit mindless scrolling and social media “lounging” and try to balance it with something more worthwhile like
attending an online class, listening to a podcast, or following an online workout, because truly, the possibilities are endless.
BE PRESENT: When you learn to cultivate the time to be offline, it is essential to practice the art of being present. This means noticing the details, being mindful of the surroundings, and seeing what can be done to fully celebrate the now. Perhaps more time can be spent chatting with loved ones, re-connecting, braiding your child’s hair, and dedicating more time for a passion project. Whatever the chosen activity, let it be something that gives joy to the heart.
BE INTENTIONAL. Learn how to filter. Create and follow guidelines for you and your family to follow. Limit screen time or use of social media. I am personally an advocate of digital management because I realized how too much screen time has a detrimental impact. It is essential for us to optimize the benefits of social media while minimizing its risks. You can do so by going online with a purpose. Is it to learn, to research, or to update yourself with loved ones? Be clear with your intention and stick to that purpose. Doing so will allow yourself to preserve your sanity.
Ultimately, make it a habit to ask yourself: Am I going online for ME-nistry or ministry? Are you going online to post something for likes to boost your ego? Or is it for popularity, to boost your following? I hope it is for a better, more fulfilling, and inspiring purpose. Reflect and move towards allowing yourself to become the best version of yourself both online and offline. – WITH PAU DE VERA