Introducing The Next Generation Of Leaders And Thinkers

Why Do We Turn to Social Media Instead of Our Friends?

A video that has recently gone viral is Simon Sinek’s interview with Inside Quest on one of their episodes. It has been shown to me by teachers, friends and peers alike and I’ve seen it all over social media. In this video, the topic of millennials and their abilities to form relationships, perform well in the workplace and coping with the world around them is discussed.

A point Sinek makes that really stood out to me was his claim that we as a generation make superficial relationships that lack depth. That we basically only use our friends for a good time but don’t rely on them to be there for us, or make bonds that are deeper than companionship. He also makes the point that millennials don’t have the necessary coping skills to deal with stress, and that our generation is more insecure, depressed and anxious which leads them to things like social media rather than people. It’s hard for me to argue against this when I see it so often. We’ve all been there. You think no one, not even your best friend or the people closest to you could understand. Or you think they don’t care. So what do we do? We turn to an unresponsive outlet — social media. Whether it be Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, we tend to reveal more to our followers than to our own friends and family. Sinek puts it simply:

“they’re not turning to a person, they’re turning to a device, they’re turning to social media, they’re turning to these things which offer temporary relief.”

It’s easy to fall into this behavior, especially if you’re already subject to illnesses such as depression and anxiety. A lot of the time when you’re going through something, you find it easier to turn to your phone and type a tweet than send a text to your friend seeking comfort or help. I think it’s important to seek relief from something other than social media. It could be making art, doing a type of exercise or going to a place that brings you serenity, but truly the best remedy for when you’re feeling down is spending time with people. Nothing compares to the laughter you share with friends, the comforting hug from a parent or the sincerity from a significant other.

The one thing I would have to argue against Sinek’s claims is that we millennials don’t form deep relationships with our friends. At times we may not feel like we have people there for us, but in my experience, I can guarantee you someone cares and it is possible for us to have meaningful relationships. Even if it’s just one person, there is someone who will be willing to listen and eager to help. It is up to us, however, to reach out sometimes. No one can know what you are thinking or feeling if you don’t say it, and it’s better to say it to someone than to a site where information is consumed and thrown away every second.

Social media is fun and plays an important role in our world today, but it shouldn’t be a source of relief or the thing you turn to when you’re feeling alone because chances are you won’t find what you’re looking for there. Try to be there for your friends and in turn someone will be there for you. Be kind. Remember that everyone has their personal struggles, and sometimes the easiest way to start forming bonds with the people in your life is by simply asking, “How was your day?”

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