How Social Media Is Destroying Our Sense of Normalcy

Introduction

In today's digital landscape, social media plays a pivotal role in shaping our perceptions of normalcy and happiness. This tutorial outlines key insights from Susannah Friesen's video on how social media can distort our understanding of reality, leading to negative mental health effects and unrealistic comparisons. By understanding these concepts, we can take proactive steps to cultivate a healthier relationship with social media.

Step 1: Understand the Blueprint to Happiness

• Recognize that societal ideals of happiness are often influenced by social media portrayals.
• Reflect on your own definitions of happiness and how they align with or differ from what you see online.
• Acknowledge that these portrayals are often curated and not representative of real life.

Step 2: Recognize the Sad Reality

• Be aware that many social media influencers present an idealized version of life that is unattainable for most.
• Understand that this can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with your own life.

Step 3: Examine the Statistics

• Familiarize yourself with statistics related to social media usage and its impact on mental health.
• Consider how these numbers reflect broader trends in society, such as increased anxiety and depression linked to online comparison.

Step 4: Explore Aesthetic Culture

• Identify the various subcategories of "aesthetic" that dominate social media.
• Consider how these aesthetics contribute to the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards.

Step 5: Reflect on Your Own Reality

• Take time to document your own life, focusing on the unfiltered, everyday aspects that often go unseen.
• Share these moments with others to normalize the concept of "ordinary" living.

Step 6: Embrace Normalcy

• Acknowledge that it is okay to be normal and that everyone has their own struggles.
• Practice gratitude for what you have, recognizing that this mindset can counteract feelings of envy and dissatisfaction.

Step 7: Understand Wealth Beyond Followers

• Recognize that social media following does not equate to real wealth or abundance.
• Focus on building meaningful relationships and experiences rather than obsessing over follower counts.

Step 8: Normalize the Normal

• Advocate for more representations of normal life on social media platforms.
• Share your own experiences and encourage others to do the same, fostering a community of authenticity.

Step 9: Realize You Are Not Alone

• Understand that your experiences are shared by many; you are not the exception but rather part of the majority.
• Connect with others who feel similarly to build a supportive network.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media can significantly distort our perceptions of normalcy and happiness. By recognizing the curated nature of online content, embracing our realities, and advocating for authenticity, we can foster a healthier relationship with social media. Consider taking a break from social media or curating your feed to prioritize accounts that promote genuine and relatable content.