How To Be A Conscious Media Consumer?
In this digital era, technology continues to shape the way we consume content. We all inevitably indulge in content of one form or the other. We may not even realise it but the kind and quality of content we consume affects our mindset and the way we look at the world around us. In essence, it affects our story. Two Souls One Chai is all about living a good story, so it made sense to then discuss the Consumption of Digital Content - the theme for this week!
Today, for Chai Time Wednesdays, we will be sharing tips that can help you in becoming a more mindful media consumer and make the most out of this medium. Just a disclaimer though, digital media is not bad. It is how we use it that makes it good or bad. It can either increase our well-being by increasing our sense of connection or it can create fears and anxiety. That’s why being conscious of this is pivotal.
Here’s our advice and insights on this matter:
1. Be Clear On Your Values
Always ask yourself this question, “is what you are watching or creating on a particular digital platform, in alignment with your belief system or views?”
Ultimately, conscious consumption is all about intention.
Just a simple example, when you share your pictures on social media, is it to get likes and appear superior in front of your peers or is it to share your happiness and show your gratitude for life? The latter brings a sense of contentment and peace, regardless of how many ‘likes’ you get. The former on the other hand, creates an underlying competition with what others are sharing. Sadly, in doing so we end up causing our own misery.
Set your intentions right, and make sure that what you are consuming is congruent with your larger goals in life.
2. It Is All A Game Of Balance
Nothing done in the extreme is ever good. Cutting off from digital media completely also limits us from the myriad of opportunities it brings. Just look at the number of small businesses thriving on social media alone! And not just that, but we miss out on a lot of educational content too.
So the solution is in being moderate. Instead of cutting off, cut down. Be mindful of how much time you are spending on it. Cut down slowly, and replace that time with let’s say family time?
Or if your concern is that you are becoming a couch potato, taking the “Netflix and chill” life way too seriously, then try doing a home workout while watching your favourite show? Maybe that would make exercising fun for you! You never know!
3. Trust Your Intuition
Trust your gut feeling. Sometimes your intuition can see and feel things that your logical mind is not able to grasp. So be in sync with it!
If something doesn’t feel right, take a step back and breathe.
Also don’t hesitate to filter out. Whether it is the type of content you are watching on Video Streaming Platforms (more on that in our podcast, this Sunday), or the pages you follow on your social media platforms, have the habit of occasionally filtering. Keep only those that add value into your life, otherwise it's time to bid farewell to it.
4. Expand Your Horizons
Digital media is not only for your entertainment but can also be a valuable tool for educational purposes. It can come in handy when you are interested in expanding your horizons.
Our advice is to not stick to your usual genres all the time. I have recently gotten into the habit of listening to audiobooks on audible while doing the dishes, and it has given me the opportunity to cover more content in just 15 minutes a day. At the same time, it has allowed me to explore a wide selection of topics that I wouldn’t normally consume.
My Father-in-law once shared with me that, your money, fame, or outward appearance is not what makes one attractive to others, it's your grasp of knowledge that truly makes one mesmerising. While digital media has its downside, if you can bring in mindfulness, it can also become your biggest ally.
That’s it for Chai Time Wednesday's dearest friends! To get the full big picture of this week’s theme, do check out Unwind with the Khans on our Youtube channel this Friday and tune in to the Two Souls One Chai Podcast this coming Sunday!
Till then, take care!
With love,
Rabail and Umair Khan
