With the rapid expansion of technology in the 21st century, forming connections with people globally can be achieved through just the tip of our fingers. Social Media plays an important role in navigating our lives, especially teenagers. The ability to share experiences and cultivate new friendships through our phones is ever so endearing, but it is beneficial to take a step back and understand how it saturates our lives.

Think about it this way. How often do you check your phone throughout the day, whether it is social media or any other app? 

Chances are, you rely on your phone a lot. 

In fact, data from the Familial and Adolescent Health Survey conducted by Gallup in the summer of 2023 indicates that teenagers in the United States spend an average of 4.8 hours per day on Social Media. This number only continues to increase as teenagers grow older.

Although social media can bring positive opportunities to a person’s life, it is important to consider the balance that teenagers must create between technology and a happy life to be successful. 

Exercising mindfulness is a powerful method teenagers can follow to avoid the overuse of their phones and other technology that can be addicting. Mindfulness allows you to be conscious about your surroundings and yourself, which leads to improvement of self-esteem. For teenagers, mindfulness can help them develop awareness about the impact of their actions on social media as well as a resilient mindset that can handle digital interactions well. 

Tips to Exercise Mindfulness

Digital Detox

Set aside a certain time in your day to stay away from technology. This powerful strategy can heighten your awareness and focus, as well as enhance your sleep.

Mindful Breathing

Spend five minutes a day practicing mindful breathing during any moment you are stressed. Take slow breaths and be aware of the rate of your breathing. This can help build up more self-awareness and lead to a calmer mind

Set Boundaries  

Actively be aware of how you present yourself on social media. Are you putting yourself out there due to peer pressure or your own desire for authenticity?

Enjoy your surroundings

Rather than using your phone to capture the moment through pictures, capture the special moment you are in with your own eyes, which can create lasting memories for a lifetime.

Being present in the moment can change your perspective easily for the better and can open your eyes to the world around you.