Social Media

How to Tap Out of the Social Media Noise When It’s Draining Your Energy and Mental Health

In our hyper-connected world, social media has become a staple of daily life, a platform where we share ideas, support each other, and foster connections. However, there's a flip side. The very tool meant to connect and inspire us can also take a toll on our mental health, draining energy and creating a whirlwind of comparison, overstimulation, and burnout. Learning to step back when necessary isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. Here’s a guide on how to mindfully "tap out" of the noise to protect your well-being.

1. Recognise When It's Time to Step Back

Awareness is the first step. If you find yourself feeling anxious, constantly comparing your life to others, or overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content, it might be time to take a break. These feelings are often signals from your body and mind that you need to create some distance to recharge.

Some signs that may indicate you need a break from social media include:

  • Increased stress or anxiety after scrolling

  • Feeling more irritable or sensitive

  • Comparing yourself frequently to others

  • Difficulty focusing on tasks or personal goals

  • Physical signs of fatigue, like headaches or eye strain

Taking a moment to observe your thoughts and feelings can reveal a lot about the toll that endless online content is taking on you.

2. Establish Boundaries for Your Online Presence

Setting boundaries is a powerful way to manage your social media use. This could mean allocating specific times to check your accounts, limiting notifications, or using apps that monitor your screen time. Boundaries will give you control over your usage, helping to minimize mindless scrolling and maximize intentional engagement.

Some ideas for healthy boundaries include:

  • Daily time limits: Decide on a reasonable time limit for social media use each day. Many phones have built-in features to help track usage and even remind you when it’s time to step away.

  • Digital-free zones: Create spaces in your day, such as during meals or before bed, where you avoid all online interaction. This can give you a chance to unwind and be present without digital distractions.

  • Unfollow or mute: Don’t be afraid to curate your feed. Follow accounts that inspire and uplift you, and unfollow or mute those that bring negativity or stress.

3. Rediscover the Joy of Being Present

When we’re constantly on our phones, we’re missing out on life’s real-time moments. Mindfulness practices, like meditation or simply spending time outdoors, can help us reconnect with ourselves and the present moment.

Practices to consider:

  • Mindful breathing: A few minutes of deep breathing can help calm your mind and bring you back to the present.

  • Nature time: Spending time outside is an incredible antidote to digital overstimulation. Just 10-15 minutes of fresh air can work wonders on your mood.

  • Gratitude journaling: Take a few minutes each day to note down things you’re grateful for. Focusing on real-world positives can help lessen the lure of seeking validation online.

4. Shift Your Focus to Purpose-Driven Social Media Use

If social media is part of your personal or professional life, consider adopting a purpose-driven approach. By focusing on the quality of what you post or consume rather than the quantity, you can maintain a positive and enriching experience without getting lost in the digital chaos.

Ways to embrace purposeful use:

  • Limit consumption: Set clear intentions for each time you log on—whether it’s to connect with friends, learn something new, or share a meaningful story.

  • Engage meaningfully: Instead of mindlessly scrolling, seek out conversations that spark positive interactions or build on your passions and interests.

  • Share authentically: If you feel comfortable, consider sharing moments that genuinely reflect who you are, not just what might garner likes or shares. Authenticity not only feels fulfilling but attracts like-minded people into your circle.

5. Embrace Real-World Connections

While social media connects us in countless ways, it can’t replace real-world human interactions. Spending time with loved ones, engaging in activities you enjoy, and having face-to-face conversations can be profoundly nourishing. Cultivating a strong offline support network will naturally reduce your dependency on online validation and offer more grounded sources of joy and connection.

6. Make Social Media Breaks Part of Your Routine

Consider scheduling regular “social media detoxes” to recharge. Whether it’s a day off each week, a weekend once a month, or a full week every quarter, giving yourself time away allows your mind to reset. By intentionally incorporating these breaks into your routine, you’ll be able to maintain balance without feeling deprived.

7. Seek Support If Needed

If social media’s impact feels overwhelming or if your mental health continues to be affected, seeking support can be incredibly helpful. A therapist, coach, or support group can provide guidance tailored to your needs and help you develop resilience in the digital age.

Final Thoughts

Stepping back from social media isn’t about disconnecting entirely or demonizing the platforms—it’s about prioritizing your well-being. When used mindfully, social media can be a fantastic tool. By learning to listen to your needs and taking intentional breaks, you can regain control, protect your energy, and embrace a healthier relationship with the online world.

Manifesting Melodies; Exploring Able Heart's Frequency Of Success

Welcome to Season 19 of the ImperfectlyPerfect podcast! Kicking off with a burst of inspiration, our first episode features the incredible journey of Able Heart, the artist behind the viral sensation 'Girl I Wanna Hear You Whisper,' amassing over 300 million streams.

Able Heart's musical triumph on TikTok is not the beginning of his story.

From a devastating snowboarding accident to his own personal journey experiencing depression and anxiety through to addiction, Able's path to success is marked by challenges that many would never have known.

Despite the glossy exterior of what people think they may know about somebody , Season 19 invites you to delve into the raw and unfiltered truth of Able's story.

Join us as we explore the depths of his struggles, triumphs, and the untold chapters that make Able Heart's story truly imperfectly perfect.

Today, he embarks on a mission to create music that resonates globally, shaping a narrative beyond the confines of social media. Behind the catchy tunes lies a profound journey of resilience and personal triumph.

We cannot wait for you to dive deep in to this episode and be left inspired by Able's words, story and wisdom.

To find out more about Able, simply head to his official website at:

https://www.ableheart.co/

You think you know me, you have no idea with Kate Neilson

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👍🏽 Please leave a like and appreciate all the support!

It’s been over 3 1/2 years since we last caught up with the amazing Kate Neilson over in Los Angeles as she was one of the first people to get straight behind our global efforts and this week see’s founder; Glenn Marsden and Kate catching up for a chat on the ImperfectlyPerfect Podcast to talk all things from her career which saw her leave Australia and set her sights on Hollywood, to gain a role in the hit Killer Elite with Robert De Niro, her advocacy towards mental health and why it means so much to her, & we discuss her latest projects including her latest movie ‘the dunes’ out now on Amazon and something really fascinating she is producing out of Kentucky, a true crime series which see’s her advocate for change within the prison system and bringing much needed stories to light!

In today's podcast episode, we will be addressing a sensitive and potentially distressing topic—suicide. We understand that this subject matter can be difficult for some individuals, and we want to emphasize the importance of self-care and emotional well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, we strongly urge you to reach out to a mental health professional or helpline in your country. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people who care and want to help. If you feel that listening to this episode may be triggering for you, we encourage you to prioritize your mental health and consider skipping this particular content. Take care of yourself, and know that your well-being is of utmost importance.

Make sure to subscribe to the show guys, by clicking the link below:

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/imperfectlyperfect-podcast/id1568959829

Be sure to leave a comment, write a review and remember if you enjoyed this episode, then share the love and pay it forward to a friend.

To find out more about Kate, her projects and to keep up to date with her, be sure to follow her via her socials at: @kateneilsonofficial

The Impact of Social Media and Media on Mental Health and Beauty Standards

In today's digital age, social media and traditional media platforms wield significant influence over our lives, including our perceptions of beauty. With the rise of photo editing tools, airbrushed images, and curated profiles, unrealistic beauty standards have become deeply ingrained in our society. This article explores the connection between mental health and the perpetuation of unattainable beauty ideals in the realm of social media and traditional media.

The Social Media Paradox:

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok provide a constant stream of carefully crafted images that often present an unattainable standard of beauty. The paradox lies in the fact that while social media promotes self-expression and connectivity, it can also lead to negative effects on mental health. Research suggests that exposure to these idealized images can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction among individuals who compare themselves to the seemingly flawless images they encounter online.

Unrealistic Beauty Standards:

Media outlets, including television, magazines, and online platforms, have long portrayed a narrow definition of beauty, often equating it with unattainable physical attributes. The emphasis on flawless skin, slim figures, and specific facial features has had a profound impact on how individuals perceive their own bodies. This unrelenting pursuit of an idealized appearance can result in a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

Body Image Dissatisfaction:

One of the most significant consequences of social media and media-driven beauty standards is the development of body image dissatisfaction. With the constant exposure to filtered and edited images, individuals often experience distorted perceptions of their own bodies. This distorted body image can lead to a negative self-image, unhealthy dieting practices, and an obsession with achieving an unattainable beauty ideal. The pressure to conform to these standards can have severe implications for mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as adolescents.

Fostering a Culture of Comparison:

Social media's emphasis on likes, followers, and validation perpetuates a culture of comparison. The constant comparison of one's appearance, achievements, and lifestyle to those of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and diminished self-worth. The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards to gain social acceptance and validation can be particularly damaging to mental health.

Promoting Self-Acceptance and Mental Well-being:

While social media and media play a significant role in shaping beauty standards, they can also be harnessed as tools for positive change. Influencers and content creators who promote body positivity, self-acceptance, and mental well-being are challenging traditional beauty norms. By advocating for diverse representations of beauty and fostering a culture of self-love, these influencers are helping to counteract the negative effects of social media and media on mental health.

The influence of social media and traditional media on beauty standards cannot be ignored. The perpetuation of unrealistic beauty ideals has detrimental effects on mental health, leading to body image dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and other related issues. However, by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and self-acceptance, we can reshape societal norms and create a healthier environment for individuals to embrace their unique beauty. It is essential for media platforms, influencers, and individuals alike to prioritize mental well-being over unattainable beauty standards, ultimately fostering a more positive and empowering online culture.

Building Strong Networks and Communities: Beyond Follower Counts and Likes

Building Strong Networks and Communities: Beyond Follower Counts and Likes

Introduction:

In today's digital age, social media platforms have become ubiquitous, enabling individuals to connect and engage with others across the globe.

Follower counts, like counts, and connections on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have often been perceived as indicators of one's network strength and influence.

However, it is crucial to recognize that these metrics alone do not determine the true strength of a network or community.

Genuine relationships, meaningful interactions, and shared values form the foundation of a strong network.

In this article, we will explore why follower counts, like counts, and connections on LinkedIn don't count when it comes to building robust networks and communities.

  1. Quantity vs. Quality:

  2. Follower counts, like counts, and connections primarily focus on quantity rather than quality. While having a large number of followers or connections might give the illusion of a significant network, it does not guarantee meaningful engagement or support. It is far more valuable to cultivate genuine relationships with a few individuals who share common interests or goals, as they are more likely to offer meaningful support, collaboration, and opportunities.

  3. Superficial Engagement:

  4. Likes and followers can be misleading when evaluating the engagement and impact of an individual's content or ideas. People often scroll through posts mindlessly, tapping the like button without truly engaging with the content. Meaningful conversations, feedback, and thought-provoking discussions, which are the essence of building strong networks, are often overlooked in the pursuit of superficial metrics.

  5. Authenticity and Trust:

  6. Building strong networks and communities require trust and authenticity. A high follower count does not guarantee trust or credibility, nor does it reflect the quality of relationships. Authenticity, transparency, and consistent engagement are far more important in establishing trust and fostering meaningful connections. People value genuine interactions and shared values over mere numbers.

  7. Diversity and Inclusivity:

  8. The true strength of a network lies in its diversity and inclusivity. A network that comprises individuals from different backgrounds, industries, and perspectives brings together a wealth of knowledge and experiences. Follower counts and connections alone cannot capture the richness that diverse networks bring to the table. It is essential to prioritize building networks that encompass a wide range of voices and perspectives to foster creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

  9. Offline Interactions:

  10. While social media platforms have undoubtedly facilitated networking, they cannot replace the power of face-to-face interactions and genuine human connections. Offline interactions provide opportunities to build deeper relationships, establish trust, and collaborate on a more profound level. Investing time and effort into building offline connections and participating in events, conferences, and networking activities can have a more significant impact on network building than simply focusing on online metrics.

Conclusion:

Follower counts, like counts, and connections on LinkedIn are superficial metrics that fail to capture the true essence of building strong networks and communities. Meaningful engagement, genuine relationships, shared values, and authentic interactions are the key elements that contribute to the strength and effectiveness of networks. By prioritizing quality over quantity and investing in offline interactions, individuals can cultivate robust networks and communities that offer genuine support, collaboration, and opportunities for growth.

'Human' with Tayler Holder

As one of the most successful people in the social media space, being in your 20’s attaining millions of followers, billions of views and likes and ultimately living your life, your highlights and your mistakes out in the public eye, Tayler Holder chats with Glenn Marsden and shares his story and bears his truth.

Growing up outside of Dallas in a small town called Alvarado, TX Tayler has always been an entertainer. At the age of 3, he began racing and competing in motocross, a passion that he still holds to this day, but now more of a hobby than a profession.

After finishing High School via homeschooling Tayler moved out to California to follow his dreams to be an entertainer, and starting to create content for Instagram and Musical.ly, quickly growing his popularity on the platforms with his viral lip sync videos as well as his daily lifestyle content.

Soon after that Tayler branched out into the world of acting with the online series DIRT where he played the main character Luke who deals with love, and addiction as well as tapping into Tayler’s first love in motocross.

After joining TikTok Tayler quickly grew to millions of followers on the platform continuing to create viral content.

After collaborating with members for years, he joined the Hype House for a short period in 2020.

Today Tayler Holder continues to create lifestyle content for his fans on social media, but he is now focusing a majority of his energy on his music career as things are quickly taking off for this talented singer-songwriter.

We cant wait for you to hear the episode as we hear the reality of Tayler's behind the scenes, we get to know the man behind the profession, we discuss cancel culture, his latest song ‘I hope’ plus his highly acclaimed song ‘Human’ where he shares his truths, his story and his journey in his own words.

'In this life, we need to all remember that no matter what we perceive to be another persons life, it is just a snapshot in a moment of time, that might not reflect the truth.'

Stay tuned to Tayler’s socials below for more updates on the release of his new single 'I hope' and to keep up to date on all his latest projects:

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itstaylerholder?lang=en

IG: @taylerholder

'Helping Girls Glow' with Liv Phyland

Whether she’s surfing, singing, or dancing like there’s nobody watching, Liv Phyland has energy to burn. She’s the television presenter with a genuine lust for life.

Her television debut was in 2011, when she became the host of ABC3’s flagship show Studio3. Then 2015, saw a jump from ABC to host Eleven’s music show The Loop (Network 10), alongside Scott Tweedie.

Indulging in her love for all things lifestyle and adventure, she has also appeared in her own show Liv on the Edge, and her adventure web series Letting Go. In 2019 Liv worked with Discover Japan to create the digital series Discover Japan: Okinawa with Liv Phyland. She also co-hosted two specials for the newly created Network Ten platform 10 Travlr for Tourism NZ in 2019, and Northern Territory, and Cairns in 2020.

She has MC’d events such as the Fun4Kids festival, Cyber Safety Summit, St Kilda Festival, ARIA’s Red Carpet, The Retailer Awards and Tropfest. Is passionate for all things health and well-being, having completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology, and becoming a health coach with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and combined her passion for physical and mental health to launch and run Girls Who Glow; workshops for teenage girls to be their healthiest, happiest selves with Teigan Nash.

We are so excited for you to listen to this episode as Liv delves straight in to the topic at hand with the conversations that we still see been shied away from.

We hear how people can be affected by mental health not just directly, but also indirectly like Liv openly shares on the episode from seeing some of her closest people go through their struggles and how many people still shy away from the subject at hand when they feel they have nothing to contribute to the conversation because they haven't been directly affected personally.

This is such an important episode especially for those who feel exactly like this in not thinking that they have anything to say or advocate for.

The importance of knowing Mental Health can and does effect everyone of us throughout our life being that either directly or like this episode discusses indirectly.

To find out more information on Liv, be sure to head to her socials @livphyland

To keep up to date on the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign, our Global Efforts and how you can become an official sponsors, simply head to our official website by clicking the link below: https://linktr.ee/imperfectlyperfectcampaign

A big thank you to our Voice-Over: Mike Christensen (thevoicemonkey.com)

Disrupting Social Media's "Highlight Reels"

What started a as one photographers aims to change the face of mental health one shot at a time has quickly risen to an initiative that has gained the hearts...

What started a as one photographers aims to change the face of mental health one shot at a time has quickly risen to an initiative that has gained the hearts and minds of people globally.

But what did it take founder @_glennmarsden to bring it all together.

With a strong emphasis on always drawing attention to the behind the scenes, he explains on a recent chat with @nickandfemi on their podcast show what it really took him and the lessons he endured, learned and grew from.

To listen to the whole episode simply head to Nick&Femi’s show via their socials.

To find out about the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign, our Global Efforts & how you and your organisations can get involved, simply click the link in our bio today.