Social connections and a sense of belonging to a community are inherent needs of humans. We have been doing this since we began existing as a group on this planet, the methods, models, styles, or mediums we use change and evolve but the need to communicate remains the same. Every generation has devised its own way of communication, especially, the last few decades have brought a tremendous transformation in the way we communicate with each other. The invention of social media is one of the biggest disruptive changes that humans witnessed ever, it has radically transformed the way we communicate. The major mode of communication now happens through the internet, as always, there are pros and cons of this change like every other change we witnessed. Many people are busy dissecting this disruptive phenomenon and the new role that smartphones play in the lives of the current generation.
My kids are no different than other kids of their generation as far as social media is concerned, they love their phones and are busy with social media. When I realized that this is the mode of communication they prefer, I also decided to get acquainted with this medium so that I can communicate with them via the medium they prefer. I am glad that I did this, some of our memorable and interesting conversations happen through social media. Of course, we also meet in person and there are our usual discussions and arguments over lunches and dinners, but apart from this we also have social media where we can communicate with each other from anywhere and anytime. I agree that there is so much to learn to get on each and every social media platform, but the good news is that we don't have to be on each and every platform, there is nothing wrong if you are on each social media platform, but you don't have to be. Select a few platforms that you think represent the social or family circles you want to connect with and learn how to use them, communicate with people who love to interact and see how it improves your interactions with them.
Like any other tool, it depends a lot on how effectively you use social media. As I already mentioned, this is one of the most disruptive things humans have witnessed so far, so, if not used properly it can create some issues. In the same way, when the radio was invented, TV was invented, or cable TV was introduced we had similar concerns about their harmful effects on our personal and social lives. No matter how much people criticize or demonize these things, they are not going anywhere, social media is very much a part of our lives and you can get a lot by using it wisely. Also, I am aware that you can live a wonderful life without being on social media, but you can do the same by not using a phone, not watching TV, listening to music, or visiting any new place. However, if we can enrich our lives more by learning a few new things and expanding our world, there is no harm in giving it a shot. This is very important if you want to be in sync with your next generation. Smartphones and social media are integral parts of today's kids and youngsters, part of their world resides on these things, and that's why they are hooked to smartphones so much. If you want to communicate with them, you need to be there in that world so that they come across you once in a while. If not, then you don't exist in that world and have to wait for them to come out of their virtual world just to interact with you, and at this stage, there is not much incentive for doing this. Learn a few things about social media and start your journey there, make connections with people you love, and enjoy another method to stay in touch. Good luck with this adventure.
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