We’ve all experienced the occurrence of “alone together.” It’s a reference to social media users: a crowd of people busy with their devices and ignoring those around them.

Social media is a valuable connection and communication tool designed to link people all over the world. Imagine the impact we can have on other people’s lives for good, people we may never meet face-to-face, but we can touch their lives with insight, expertise, and sincere friendship.

Tips to Add Balance to Social Media

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We are born with the need for relationships, and social media is a powerful relationship-builder. I’m a strong proponent of social media! I value its power to make this world a better place to live. Consider the following opportunities:

A digital missionary is able to reach others unlike ever before.
A teacher who instructs online classes.
Faith-based programs.
A visit with family and friends.
Shut-ins who are now able to take care of day-to-day situations.
Doctors on demand services.
A psychologist who counsels online or via phone.
Virtual offices to cut costs for business owners.
Professionals who can offer valuable information.
And the list goes on.

The downside is social media can initiate a lack of human interaction and promote artificial bonding with a device. I’m sure we all agree that is unhealthy and guidelines need to be in place.

A week ago, I posed this question about social media balance on my Facebook page and received a tremendous response. Many of my near and far friends offered tips and solutions that I’d like to share with you.

Make a commitment that those around us have priority over our devices.
Meal times at home and at restaurants are device-free. Use this opportunity to enhance the relationship with the person(s) around you.
The mantra of “be in the moment” with others.
Be safe in public by keeping our noses out of our devices.
Ignore devices when driving.
Schedule social media. Do not let it schedule you.
When conducting social media, be fully engaged.

We all can fall under the trap of overusing social media. But we can choose to be healthy and enjoy the people around us.

What is your tip for balancing social media?

Congratulations to Lori who submitted the best caption of “A rare photo of the elusive Bird-of-Scare-a-dise” for the picture from last week’s blog post Write a Caption and Win! She will be receiving a $25 Starbucks Gift card. Thanks to all that participated. There were many great captions submitted and it was hard to narrow things down.