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This post will discuss the influence of media and social media on our society.
“Media” refers to traditional forms like TV, radio, and newspapers. “Social media” encompasses platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
These platforms undeniably influence our lives, shaping our society in areas like fashion, relationships, education, finance, and even spirituality—virtually every aspect of how we live.
For example, during interviews after their arrest, there have been cases where criminals confessed that media portrayals of crime, such as in movies, inspired them to pursue a life of crime. This illustrates the potential negative impact.
However, the media’s influence is both positive and negative. The ultimate impact depends on the individual. We shouldn’t avoid media altogether, as that would mean missing out on the valuable information and benefits they offer. The key is balance.
Here’s how to engage with media without letting it negatively influence you:
Avoid Addiction:
The first step is to avoid media addiction. When you’re addicted, it’s difficult to stop. You might become so attached to certain soap operas or music artists that you can’t go without them.
You need to reach a point where you can comfortably disconnect from media for periods of time. The ability to live without media for a while is crucial.
Reduce Time Spent:
Assess how you spend your time and how much of it is devoted to media consumption. Tracking your media usage is important.
Spending all your time on media is unwise. Effective time management requires setting daily limits for media consumption. Wasting time is easy, and media platforms are readily available to facilitate it. Instead of wasting time, invest it in productive activities.
Prioritize Positive Content:
Social media allows you to control what you consume. While algorithms often prioritize entertainment, you can actively search for educational and uplifting content.
Prioritize content that contributes to your personal growth, whether it’s career development, business acumen, healthy relationships, or spiritual connection.
While entertaining and humorous content can be a good way to relax, it shouldn’t be your sole focus. Regularly consuming only entertainment and lighthearted material can lead to intellectual stagnation.
Conscious and Unconscious Influence:
Some argue that media has no influence, but this is often untrue. We are influenced both consciously and unconsciously. For instance, if someone close to you constantly plays a certain song, you’ll likely memorize it even if you don’t know the artist.
This demonstrates how learning can be both conscious and unconscious. Similarly, what we watch and listen to can shape our thoughts and behaviors, even if we don’t realize it.
Conclusion:
We must be selective about what we watch and listen to, as it inevitably affects us. Make a conscious effort to choose programs that add value to your life. Be intentional about your media consumption. Don’t leave your mind unguarded.
This post was inspired by Proverbs 4:23: “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”
