Glennon’s Dramatic Social Media Plan with Amelia Hruby
Dec 3, 2024
auto_awesome
Amelia Hruby, a writer, educator, and podcaster with a PhD in philosophy, joins to explore the emotional toll of social media. She and Glennon discuss the toxic patterns of seeking validation online and share techniques for healthier interactions. Glennon opens up about her own choice to step away from social media and the challenges that come with it. They emphasize the importance of genuine relationships and personal boundaries, comparing the process of leaving social media to a breakup, urging listeners to reassess their digital lives.
Glennon emphasizes the profound impact of social media on self-worth, linking it to dependency on external validation and self-esteem issues.
The podcast discusses the detrimental effects of social media on real-life relationships, fostering a sense of isolation despite a facade of connectivity.
Listeners are encouraged to adopt intentional strategies to evaluate their social media usage, promoting healthier dynamics and emotional well-being.
Deep dives
The Impact of Social Media on Identity and Self-Worth
Social media significantly influences individuals' identities and self-worth by creating a dependency on external validation. Many users associate their self-esteem with likes and comments, which leads to an unhealthy reliance on digital affirmation. For instance, some individuals may find themselves comparing their worth to the engagement they receive online, feeling valued only when supported by digital metrics. Over time, this behavior can erode self-trust and self-belief, creating a cycle of seeking validation through these platforms.
Navigating Relationships in a Digital Age
The transition from real-life connections to online interactions can dilute the quality of relationships, leading to an experience often described as 'faux proxy community.' Many people rely on social media to maintain ties with friends and family, but often neglect to invest in these relationships offline. This reliance on digital interactions can create a false sense of closeness, leaving individuals feeling isolated despite their online presence. Ultimately, the meaningful interactions that once defined community are replaced by superficial engagements with a fragmented sense of connection.
Recognizing the Detrimental Effects of Comparison
The phenomenon of 'compare and despair' is prevalent among social media users, highlighting the negative mental health effects associated with constant exposure to curated lifestyles. Scrolling through feeds, users often feel inadequate as they compare their realities to the seemingly perfect lives of others. The pressure to achieve comparable levels of success and happiness can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and despair. Acknowledging this cycle is crucial for individuals to reclaim their sense of self and foster healthier perspectives on their own lives.
The Addictive Nature of Social Media and Its Design
Social media platforms are built to be addictive, often using algorithms designed to keep users engaged for extended periods. Many users are unaware of how these algorithms manipulate their interactions, making it difficult to recognize when they are falling into unhealthy usage patterns. This design can lead to compulsive behaviors, where individuals find themselves scrolling aimlessly, further contributing to their anxiety and mental distress. Understanding the mechanics behind these platforms can empower users to make more conscious choices regarding their engagement.
Strategies for Reclaiming Personal Well-Being
Implementing intentional strategies can help individuals assess and improve their relationship with social media. One suggested practice is to monitor feelings while using these platforms, helping users identify emotions that arise from the content they consume. Taking breaks from social media can also provide valuable insights into how an absence from these platforms affects overall well-being. Ultimately, finding the right balance between online engagement and real-life interactions can lead to healthier mental states and improved relationships.
367. Glennon’s Dramatic Social Media Plan with Amelia Hruby
Today, we’re finally doing it: talking about leaving social media. On the episode you’ll hear Glennon, Abby and Amanda chat with their guest, Amelia Hruby about the challenges and impacts of social media on mental health, personal relationships, community building, and self-worth. Glennon shares her experience of stepping away from social media and possible next steps.
Discover:
-How social media is linked to codependency and anxious attachment
-The two must-do practices to evaluate your current relationship to social media
-How to navigate the fear of missing out (FOMO) and stay connected without social media
-Glennon’s journey to leaving socials and what she is thinking of doing next
More on Amelia: Amelia Hruby is a writer, educator and podcaster with a PhD in philosophy. She is the founder of Softer Sounds, a feminist podcast studio for entrepreneurs and creatives. And she’s the host of Off the Grid, a podcast about leaving social media without losing all your clients.