40% of online users, ages 18 to 22 years old, have reported feelings of Social Media Addiction according to the website Statista. By the way, superstar athletes and entertainers are not exempt from this statistic.
So how can an athlete or a parent of an athlete, pick up on the signs of Social Media Addiction?
There are actually many signs that can point to an individual’s Social Media Addiction. If you can catch these signs early and implement new practices, beating the addiction will become tremendously easier.
It’s important for athletes to understand, that their cellphone and the apps on it, were designed to keep them engaged as long as possible. We are supposed to get lost in our technology. Social Media was intended to become a large part of our lives.
However. It’s not supposed to take over your life…
When Social Media feels like it’s taking over your life and truly effecting your emotions.
IT’S OFFICIALLY TIME FOR CHANGE!!!
Checkout our Social Media Addiction “RED FLAGS” below. Let’s make sure we have our hands on the wheel and full control over our relationship with Social Media and Technology.
Signs of Social Media Addiction:
- Feelings of Anxiousness
Do you feel anxious to get back on Social Media when your access is limited or restricted? This is a feeling you definitely want to monitor. If 30 mins with NO Social Media feels like being a hostage in a foreign Country. It’s time to take steps towards detoxing from Social Media.
- Social Media for Breakfast
If the first move of your day is to check your Social Media timeline and tweak your profile. It’s time for a new strategy.
The content on your Social Media Timeline isn’t going anywhere. Focus on starting your day with positivity. Positive Quotes, Music, Yoga, anything that brings light into your life. Positivity is your armor. Make sure you put it on before you check the Social Media platforms.
- No Off-Line Passions or Desires
Once your Social Media life begins to be more exciting than real life. It’s time to turn the ship around. If you find that your desires to engage with friends and family face-to-face is low. Put the phone down. Set daily alarms on your phone to remind yourself to limit your Social Media usage. If you turn the phone off during certain times of the day you can’t be consumed. You’ll be able to stay in control, and not let the technology control you!
- Mood Swings are the Norm
Have you ever felt emotional or angry, and didn’t know why? Check your Social Media usage. It’s normal to have feelings of anger or inadequacy, when you immerse yourself in Social Media. Many Social Media users report admiring other people’s lives, which causes them to feel bad about their own life.
Keep in mind. 90% of Social Media posts are highlights. Not everyone’s life is as “peachy smooth” as they make it seem. Remember, we are all creators.
Put the phone down and get back to creating a life that is uniquely your own.
It’s time!
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