What Your Dog Wants You to Know About Using Social Media
Social media is a wonderful way to stay in touch with family
and friends, but it can have its downside. Numerous
studies suggest that overdoing it on Facebook or similar sites can make us
unhappy.
For example, having more than 7 social media accounts triples
the risk of depression among young adults, according to researchers at The
University of Pittsburgh. Maybe it’s the multitasking or the pressure to look
cool in multiple venues with different rules. Either way, that’s one mistake
your dog wouldn’t make. He’s content with playing in the same park each
afternoon, and eating his usual for dinner each night.
If you’re going to use social media, there are a few more
things your dog could teach you. After all, he’s man’s best friend, so take a
look at these ideas he’d want to share with you.
Play Nice:
Online spontaneity can lead to regrets if you say something
insensitive. Even dogs benefit from being socialized.
1.
Think first. Ask yourself if what you’re typing is encouraging and constructive. Imagine
how you’d feel if you were on the receiving end.
2.
Consider your audience. Context matters. Avoid misunderstandings by
choosing the appropriate platform for your remarks. Puppy pictures will get
more laughs on Facebook than LinkedIn.
3.
Take the high road. You’ll probably run into some rudeness and
aggression online. Try to elevate the
conversation or leave gracefully if necessary.
Accept Yourself:
The average mutt can have just as much confidence as any
Westminster Kennel Club winner. Loving yourself protects you from feeling
inferior online and off.
1.
Be authentic. Know that you are worthy of happiness and
respect just the way you are. Celebrate your strengths, and enjoy exploring the
areas where you want to grow.
2.
Resist comparisons. Sometimes it looks like everyone else on Facebook
is taking exotic vacations and bragging about their gifted children. Count your blessings and pursue your own
definition of success.
3.
Think positive. Think of challenges as opportunities. Wake up
with a smile and be kind to yourself. When you talk to yourself, choose words
that comfort and inspire you.
Stay Active:
Being sedentary takes a toll on your mental and physical
health. Maybe you need to step away from the computer.
1.
Take a walk. Exercise each day. Walk your dog an extra mile or visit the gym.
2.
Move around. Incorporate more physical activity
into each day. Climb the
stairs or do some extra chores around the house.
3.
Interact offline. Cultivate relationships face-to-face. Meet up
with friends for a regular coffee or lunch date. Throw a potluck dinner with
your neighbors.
Engage in Meaningful Activities:
Your dog can find fulfillment in chasing a stick. You may
need to aim a little higher. If you’re feeling down about squandering the last
2 hours on celebrity gossip, devote your time to finer things.
1.
Live mindfully. Any activity can be profound if you keep your
purpose in mind. Enjoy preparing breakfast for your family or giving your dog a
bath.
2.
Find a hobby. Fill your leisure time with projects that
expand your knowledge and skills. Play a musical instrument or study a foreign
language.
3.
Focus on giving. True gratification comes from
helping others and contributing to your community. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or library.
Tell a retail worker when their patience and kindness helps to make your
errands more pleasant.
If your dog can figure out how to avoid Facebook depression
and Instagram anxiety, so can you. Monitor your social media use and pay
attention to your life offline. You and your dog will both benefit!
