6 ways to be more mindful of your social media habits [RELEARNING LIFE]

Imagine this: you're with your friends. It took weeks to plan a hangout and when the day finally comes, instead of enjoying each other's company, you're occupied on your smartphones. You'll switch from Twitter, Facebook and Instagram from time to time. And while you're at it... you might as well check work-related emails, right?

You friends give you "the face" but you tell them to give you two minutes... but that two minutes then turn into 10, 15 to 20 minutes...

A familiar scenario?

As in the case for me, I don't have to image the above scenario. Some of my friends are guilty of it and I am guilty of it too.

Don't get me wrong, I love to connect on social media (Follow motivationMY on Twitter and Facebook if you haven't!) but I also need to learn to enjoy the company of those physically infront of me.

Instead of looking busy on my Blackberry and iPad, here are 6 strategies that might help people like us who are hooked to our smartphones during our hangout time with our buddies:

What to do with your gadget and Apps

1. Switch it off
If possible, switch off your smartphones if you're having dinner with family members and friends. This way, you're able to give your full attention to them.

Ok, if this is not possible (your work email is too important!), read on!

2. Be selective with the Apps you use
If you need to be checking your incoming emails from your office and boss, perhaps you may want to logout from your other Apps or mute any notifications. Yes, any incoming Tweet mentions or a Facebook wall message can easily distract you, right?

Stick with what is important and urgent.

3. Instagram a pic and that's it
Yes, we need to take pics of the food. This is what I do (or at least try my best to!): I upload some pics on the Instragram and that's it. I'll check the Timeline or any Likes/Comments later on.

Enjoy the company

4. Enjoy the present moment
As much as it is fun to read the Timeline on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, do not neglect the people right infront of you. Perhaps you're not able to meet them often. Enjoy the moment with them.

5. Save the tweets for later!
My friends made a joke about how some of us would tweet "Having a blast with @so and @so at so and so restaurant". yet none of us are really chatting but we're just tweeting how much "fun" we're having.

Instead of updating your followers with what you're doing, just enjoy the moment and save the tweets for later!

6. Pay attention
Lastly, respect those that have made the effort to meet you in person. For an hour or so, give your friends your full attention... maybe they have something important to share and they need your fullest attention.

Maybe I've missed some points. How do you ensure that you're not distracted by Twitter, Facebook and Instagram when you're with your friends? Share!

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By Syafique
Image Credit: 1) Syafique 2) twobee via FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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