Social media frequently provides a platform for us to exhibit our accomplishments and noteworthy aspects of our lives. At times, when discontent with our personal lives, we seek appreciation and attention, searching for rewards. In such instances, we might become drawn towards social media or gaming. Seeking what we desire ‘appreciation and attention’ from social media becomes rewarding and can lead to addiction to these platforms.

A false sense of achievement

I believe this scenario has occurred for many of us- After posting on social media, there’s a sense of accomplishment, giving the impression of having completed a significant task that will aid in growing the followers. Well, it’s not your fault. Study shows that upon acknowledging the completion of a task, our brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of achievement, contentment, and joy. This dopamine release not only provides a sense of satisfaction but also acts as a motivator, encouraging further task completion to sustain that positive sensation. Interestingly, research shows that the same neurological process happens when using social media, despite not accomplishing productive tasks.

A false sense of productivity

Investing time on social media can create an illusion of productivity through interactions, likes, comments, and shares. The constant scrolling of content on social platforms can be captivating and seems to be productive, but it can also be deceptive. Moreover, the design of social media platforms often incorporates features intended to keep users engaged for extended periods. Infinite scrolls, auto-playing videos, and notifications make users stay longer, contributing to the ‘time sink’ effect. As a result, we might unknowingly spend hours on these platforms, sacrificing time that could be used for more substantial, productive, or personally fulfilling activities.

It is a hard task to balance social media use with real-world activities, ensuring that it doesn’t encroach upon valuable time that could be directed toward personal development, work, hobbies, or meaningful interactions in the physical world. However, setting boundaries and being mindful of the time spent on these platforms can help us use social media more intentionally and productively.