Be a connector, not a consumer
The unexpected blessing of a forced social media break.
“Be a creator not a consumer.”
This gentle reminder came from a friend during Bible study last week.
I formed some rather unhealthy habits that I was failing to curb these last few months. It also had been an eventful week of navigating a social media hack, taking too much time to troubleshoot, and then actually successfully talking to a real life person via customer support.
I had already taken a step back from posting on social media several months ago. I wanted to be present in the moment and I had become much more of a consumer. I found myself mindlessly scrolling, caring about the latest celebrity gossip and living vicariously through everyone that I considered a “friend.”
But these types of activity and thoughts are draining. It doesn’t fill my connection cup to just look at someone else’s photos and status. It’s not even real life, it’s just a snapshot, in a moment, that someone wanted to capture and share.
A week after the original hack, I somehow managed to reclaim my account and secure it for now. And that week of ONE less social media app taught me a few lessons:
What we post does not belong to us, and can disappear in the blink of the eye. It’s VERY EASY for an account to be hacked (whether you are a tech dummy or an above average user). We all participate in these spaces knowing there is a risk. And if you don’t know that, you didn’t read the fine print when you signed up for your free account.
There IS value in social media and the way it can strengthen in-person relationships, as well as navigate the early stages of new friendships. And I believe, see and experience authentic and genuine connection in digital spaces.
It’s time for me to release the notion that I need online access to people’s lives - both the famous celebrity/influencer, who is otherwise a stranger, and as an excuse to vicariously live life through other people’s posts.
It’s time for me to release the idea that a social media platform is my primary way to communicate and connect with friends. Last time I checked, phone calls, text messages and email are great ways to connect with loved ones near and far. My most favorite app is Marco Polo (great for different time zones, but still face to face conversations!)
I don’t believe it’s an accident that “Restless Devices,” a new to me book, popped into my life this same week, through a friend’s recommendation. I hope to read it soon.
As I move forward, I think I need to change the phrase shared with me, ever so slightly:
“Be a connector not a consumer.”
The best way I have always connected with others, is through my writing and blog and I am making plans to share in this space on a more consistent basis! Writing fills my cup and helps me connect with you! And if there is another way you prefer to connect, let me know! I want to connect with you in the way that fills your cup.