During these uncertain times, one thing is for sure: We will be spending a lot more time indoors for the foreseeable future. This brings with it a whole set of new lessons to learn. COVID19 has shaken the world into a different pace, it’s brought about restrictions like we have never known before, and will likely change behaviours for a lifetime. One of the biggest lessons we will need to master right now as a matter of urgency is how to remain connected to our nearest and dearest when we cannot physically spend time with them. Enter social media…
During social isolation it’s very easy to feel cut-off from the world, alone with your thoughts, without the opportunity to talk things through with your friends in a bar, or at your mum’s house for a cup of tea. You spend your days reflecting on when you took all of those things for granted, dreaming of the day you can once again move freely between home and meeting loved ones, and feeling a little bit like you’re in a scary movie set in a dystopian future.
Luckily, engaging and reaching out through social media during a time like this means that we can still feel a sense of connection and camaraderie with the people around us. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old friends or reach out to those you don’t see often, sharing your personal experiences through text, voice message and social media.
Perhaps in this way, we can understand that we aren’t actually alone, as so many people are in the same boat; sacrificing their own freedom to protect the vulnerable.
Video calls on WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger can substitute for the face to face contact that you crave, whilst settling your nerves about how people are doing in the world around you. Amusing filters on Snapchat and Instagram stories, along with a healthy serving of memes can bring a feeling of playfulness and joy to the day that seems like it will never end. Inspirational posts on news feeds help remind you that better days will come, and reassures you that you are doing the right thing to help bring that day closer.
Whilst social media often gets a bad rap for spreading fear and fake news, there is no denying that it brings people together. Humans are social creatures, we need to feel connections for a fulfilling life, and in a time where tangible social gatherings are discouraged or banned, social media can temporarily take the place of in-person connection.
During this trying time of an unprecedented virus outbreak, social media has never been more full of people giving free support. Whether that’s access to home workout videos whilst gyms close, or courses to pass the time and learn something new, there’s no denying that people are reaching out to each other at this time with support and kindness.
There has never been such an outpouring of care for our friends, family, neighbours, and strangers. When we re-emerge into society, perhaps it will be to a new world, but I suspect it will remain a connected one, as social media keeps informed and our relationships alive. Maybe you’ll even have nurtured a few more relationships in the time, for which you’ll always be grateful. The world is working to fight a common enemy, there is a clear goodie and a clear baddie in this scenario. And we know that social media and the people that use it to connect, share and inspire will be on the winning side.
Thank you to our guest Blogger Chantelle Davison – Choice Words By Chantelle