Social Media Can Kill Creativity
And how to distract your attention more toward your art
We've all heard it before: social media is a double-edged sword. I have mentioned several times in my podcast that I have a love/hate relationship with it. While it can connect us with friends and family, it can also be a major distraction. But did you know that social media can also be a silent killer of creativity?
The Endless Scroll
One of the biggest ways social media can stifle creativity is simply by consuming our time. The endless scroll of posts, stories, and reels can suck us in for hours on end. Before we know it, our day has slipped away, and we haven't had a chance to be creative.
Comparison Trap
Another way social media can hinder creativity is by fostering feelings of comparison and inadequacy. When we constantly see other people's seemingly perfect lives online, it can be easy to feel like our own creative efforts are lacking. This can lead to a loss of confidence and motivation.
Fear of Failure
Social media can also make us more afraid to fail. When we see other people's successes online, we may feel pressure to produce perfect work. This fear of failure can paralyze us and prevent us from taking risks and trying new things.
Distraction from the Real World
Finally, social media can distract us from the real world, which is a rich source of inspiration for creative work. When we're constantly scrolling through our feeds, we're less likely to pay attention to the people, places, and things around us that can spark our creativity.
Tips for Overcoming Social Media Distractions
If you're struggling with social media distractions, here are a few tips to help you overcome them:
Set Limits: Limit the amount of time you spend on social media each day.
Create a Dedicated Workspace: Find a quiet, distraction-free space where you can focus on your creative work.
Unfollow Accounts That Make You Feel Bad: If following certain accounts makes you feel down or inadequate, unfollow them.
Take Breaks from Social Media: Try taking a break from social media altogether for a day or even a week.
By being mindful of the ways social media can distract you from your creativity, you can take steps to overcome these challenges and unleash your full creative potential.