Social media has become the number one pastime when it comes to computers, tablets, and mobile phones. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or another social media platform, scrolling has become a daily part of many people’s lives.
While this can be beneficial, it can also become a problem. In fact, many people are addicted to social media and this kind of addiction can jeopardize a relationship.
Can you prevent social media from causing problems in your relationship? Have you experienced problems in the past due to social media? Have you stalked your ex? Your lover’s ex? Have you aired out you or your partner’s dirty laundry online?
The Pros and Cons of Social Media
Social media can something we enjoy, but there are definitely some cons to it as well. First of all, it can help us to stay connected with friends and family, which is always a nice thing. However, it can also cause some drama.
I’m sure you’ve seen status updates that caused some problems in relationships. I’ve seen updates made while intoxicated that likely caused some ripples in one’s life. I’ve also heard of people breaking up because someone became friends with their ex on Facebook. Or perhaps they searched the many social media dating apps while in a relationship. It happens quite a bit.
Relationship Statuses
You don’t have to put your relationship status on platforms like Facebook or Instagram, but many people do. Let’s say you change your status from “single” to “it’s complicated”. Do you think that might cause a problem with your partner? It might. It can also cause an issue when they change their status to “in a relationship”, but you don’t. It’s always a good idea to have a conversation about this if you feel like it could be a problem.
Jealousy
Social media can spark a lot of jealousy, so you must be on the lookout for this. Do you get jealous when your partner interacts with exes? What about coworkers or acquaintances? Do you make accusations when you see that someone attractive liked their photos? Do you make demands about who your partner can be friends with?
Even secure people can have some jealousy going on when it comes to social media, so it’s a good idea to have an open conversation about this. Reassure each other that you’re committed to your relationship and you’ll honor it everywhere- including social media. This can really keep your relationship from going downhill in a quick minute.
Stalkers Everywhere
It’s so easy to stalk people on social media platforms. Ever stalked your partner on Facebook? Instagram? Have you read their timeline to see who is liking and commenting on their posts? Do you check to see who they have become friends with? Do you stalk your ex and your partner’s ex?
You’ve really got to make a firm commitment to keep stalking out of the picture when it comes to Facebook or any other social media site. Determine to just do your own thing and let your partner do their own thing. Trust that you will both do what is honorable. This means you’re allowing each other to freely be, without feeling like you own each other.
Distractions
Many people complain that their partner is always on social media and tends to ignore them. Do you do this? Are you constantly scrolling down your Facebook newsfeed while you’re supposed to be hanging out with your partner? Or getting lost in TikTok hour after hour?
Can you put your phone away while you’re eating dinner or watching a movie together? Social media can be such a distraction so you’ve got to recognize this and keep yourself in check. Set limits for yourself and try to stick to them. You may even have to fast technology every now and then just to give your mind a nice break from the social media stimulation.
Temptation
Social media can be a temptation to look for other people who you could fall for. You could be tempted to check out your old neighbor’s profile because you thought he was hot and before you know it you are liking his statuses and sending him messages. Or you can check your ex’s page and all of a sudden be tempted to start thinking about how great your relationship was.
You have to be careful when it comes to entertaining the profiles of others on Facebook or other social media sites. You could be tempted to do something your partner would not appreciate.
If you’re tempted, acknowledge to yourself the temptation, but know ahead of time that you don’t have to act on it. Choose to walk in integrity now, so when any temptations come your way, it’ll be easier to pass on them.
All In Balance
Social media is great, but aim for balance. Do you see yourself in some of the points made in this article? If so, choose to make some changes today. Social media addiction is quite real, so be on the lookout for it and be honest with yourself.
Remember that social media is not more important than your relationship and unless you make a commitment to keep your scrolling time to a minimum, it could cause some problems.
If you’re not happy with your partner’s activity and time spent on social media, have a discussion about how this makes you feel. You can’t expect them to do away with it altogether, but do let them know if you have some issues. Open communication is important when it comes to social media and any part of your relationship.
In order for your relationship to thrive, be open, honest, and communicate often about social media and other areas you deem important in your life.
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