Social media feeds provide an infinite stream of algorithm-favouring individuals extolling the modern-day mantra of "Living My Best Life." Positive, upbeat, and even inspiring on the surface, yet one study after another on the effects of social media is pointing to a similar finding - looking at posts of popular Instagrammers leading perfectly Instagrammable lives is making most of us 'normies' feel really, really bad on a subconscious level. Even though our surface senses tell us that we're enjoying browsing a social media feed, social scientists studying the impact of the most popular platforms like Instagram say negative emotions like envy, hatred, and fear are what users end up feeling on the deepest level, especially teenage girls and young women. Speaking for myself, the same outcome inflicts adult men too. As someone obsessed with philosophers of the past and present, I've come to appreciate the value of one particular school of philosophy called Stoicism and how it could be an antidote to the harmful effects of social media.
"The true hero is one who conquers his own anger and hatred."
Dalai Lama
Stoicism is a philosophical system that emphasizes the development of self-control and resilience in the face of negative emotions and events. It teaches us to focus on what we can control and to let go of what we cannot control, which leads to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Stoicism helps us to see the world from a different perspective and provides peace and calm in the face of negative emotions, including envy, hatred, and fear.
How does Stoicism keep these negative emotions from running rampant in our minds?
One of its fundamental principles is the separation of the self from emotions. When we can observe our emotions objectively, we can see them for what they are - just thoughts and sensations that come and go like waves crashing to shore. By understanding this, we can choose not to be ruled by them and instead respond to emerging negative emotions with calm and clarity by focusing on the fact that, just like a wave building with ferocity and energy and speed as it approaches the shore, all that power suddenly disappears, absorbed by the tiny grains of sand. The more you accept (do not resist) a negative emotion and remain non-reactive to it, the quicker its power over you will dissipate like the wave meeting the beach.
The practice of stoicism has been a great source of peace and wisdom in my own life. FYI - I regularly feel every negative emotion mentioned. I've discovered from the teachings of others, like Eckhart Tolle in his book 'A New Earth,' that I'm not a freak or bad person for harbouring these emotions. It's called being human, which makes me an absolutely normal person. So I don't punish myself; instead, I see each negative emotion arising as an opportunity to practise stoic habits.
Stoicism is not just a philosophy from ancient times, but a way of life still practised today by many, from athletes to business leaders to artists to parents. The principles of stoicism are timeless and universal, applicable to any area of life to bring greater peace and fulfilment. Embracing the teachings of stoicism has empowered me to improve the conditions of my own life and positively impact the world around me. I wish the same for you and everyone else on the planet.
The practice of stoicism is valuable for anyone seeking to overcome debilitating emotions like envy, hatred, and fear. It is a tool to shape a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Whatever your state or station in life, no matter how young or old you are, wherever you come from, or the community you were born into, embrace the teachings of stoicism and discover the peace and clarity it will bring into your life.
As a bonus, you'll be able to extract positivity and inspiration from your Instagram and LinkedIn feeds without being subconsciously anguished by them.
