Social media can feel like the devil’s playground–but with cute filters and lots of photos. Don’t get me wrong, I love scrolling through Instagram and seeing what my friends are up to, but let’s be real–those pretty pictures can have ugly results. At least for me, social media can breed comparison, envy, and negativity.
But here’s the thing: God can also use it for His glory. (And that’s why I decided to get a full time job in social media. I manage multiple social media accounts for Navigators missions, including Nav20s!)
As part of my job, I have to sift through a lot of material, and sometimes, even here, it feels like I’m swimming upstream against a flood of posts promoting the comforts of this world–40 hours a week is a lot of time spent on platforms that can be destructive if left unchecked! Here are 3 things I have done to help maintain a positive relationship with social media:
- Limit time on social media by using the app limit or the downtime functions on your smartphone.
For me, setting downtime for myself after 5pm worked better than using a time limit of 30 minutes or an hour. Find what works best for you through trial and error.
- Unfollow accounts that make you feel unsatisfied or negative about yourself, your lifestyle, or God.
I used to follow accounts that posted great things: workouts, vacations, or recipes. However, I found that some of those accounts would lead me to compare or even feel envious of others. While you’re unfollowing these accounts, take time to pray about why you may be feeling envious or unsatisfied.
- Follow accounts that encourage, equip, and inspire you.
For me, these accounts focus on adventure, baking, and my faith. We all have different weaknesses, and healthy accounts are going to look different for every person.
Social media can be a tool used for God’s glory when used intentionally and wisely. For more encouragement on living intentionally in your twenties, check out the Nav20s Instagram account @navigators20s. This account shares about how to grow in your faith, vocation, community, and mission.
