Social media, for better or for worse, is here to stay.

We have all experienced it’s benefits, like sharing & celebrating major life updates with our entire communities with a single message, keeping lines of communication open with people we care about across the world, and participating in viral social movements in support of causes we believe in.

At the same time, we've also experienced social media's dark, addictive, and unhealthy side. The endless scrolling, polarity, inauthentic highlight reels, superficiality, angry trolls, cyber bullies, and it's overall draining nature.

Will it get worse? Will it get better? It’s tough to know, so all we can really do is choose how to use it, and hopefully utilize our smart phones in the smartest possible ways. Side note: this is why we created LoveBomb - which you should definitely check out.

5 Keys To Digital Well-Being

1. Be Disciplined: Mindful Usage
Limit your usage, take breaks, and be mindful of when you actually want to use it (and why) vs. checking it every second you don’t know what else to do. Find healthy alternatives when you feel the urge (like messaging a friend, going outside, or having a sip of water).

2. Be Intentional: Choose Your Connections Wisely
Your time and attention is valuable. Keep your social networks tight with those who are worth your time, energy, and care. If their content doesn't enrich your life (and they also aren't following you back), consider unfollowing. Needless to say, ongoing monitoring and maintenance is encouraged.

3. Start Conversations: Proactive Engagement
Don't wait for others to reach out to you. Take the initiative to start conversations and send direct messages (DMs) to people you appreciate and want to get to know better. Social media offers a goldmine of opportunity and connection in this space.

4. Be Giving: Share Meaningful Content
Sharing isn't just about self-promotion; it's about contributing to the digital community. Make a habit of sharing your personal insights, the causes you believe in, and content that touches your heart. If it's meaningful to you, it's likely to resonate with others as well.

5. Be Real: Authentic Expression
Inauthentic expression and connection will always stank like a cheap perfume. You don’t want to smell it on anyone, especially yourself! So always be authentic. It will feel good and resonate with others.

Navigating the Digital Landscape Mindfully
No matter where social media takes us in the coming years, you can always rely on these principles to help you make the most of the platforms you choose to engage with. By practicing discipline, being intentional with your connections, starting conversations, giving back to the digital community, and embracing authenticity, you not only improve your own digital wellness but also contribute to making the digital space a better place for everyone. Social media's future may remain uncertain, but your role in shaping a positive and mindful experience is crystal clear.