Is Social Media Still Social? A Wake-Up Call for the Scroll-Weary

Let’s just say it: there’s no such thing as good social media.

Sure, it can be useful—especially if you’ve got loved ones scattered across the globe or maybe if you’re stuck in hospital or at home recovering. Platforms like Facebook let you share holiday pics, keep people updated on the kids progress at school. But let’s be honest: is that really connection? Or just information?

Connection vs. Communication

You post. They ‘like’.

Is that meaningful interaction? I’d argue not.

Real connection happens in conversation, in togetherness.

Pick up the phone. If it’s worth sharing, tell the people who matter. Better yet, go see them. Show them the pictures in person. That’s what sticks. That’s what builds memories. Not the “Oh yeah, I saw the pics of your dolphin spotting trip on Instagram” kind of exchange.

The Rise of Virtue Signalling

It’s been this way for a while now I know but social media morphed into a self-absorbed, virtue-signalling circus—and for some reason, we’re still buying tickets.

LinkedIn: The Professional Echo Chamber

Once a hub for networking and career growth, LinkedIn now feels like the worst offender. It’s become a stage for humblebrags and corporate sainthood.

Hospital-bed hustle posts?

“No excuses, look at me, working through the pain.”

Come on!

Then there’s the endless stream of pseudo-wisdom:

“I burned my dinner—here’s what it taught me about leadership.”

“I tripped up in the park—here’s what it taught me about resilience.”

Surely no one takes this seriously?

And don’t get me started on the rants. Everyone’s suddenly a workplace reformer, preaching to the algorithm. It’s less about insight and more about venting under the guise of thought leadership.

Oh, and if you dare to let recruiters know you’re “open to work”?

That’s taboo now too and will do your job search more harm than good.

X (Formerly Twitter): A Legal Minefield?

In the UK, posting on X can land you in more trouble than committing a violent crime. That’s not hyperbole—it’s reality. Why risk it? The platform’s become a place where nuance goes to die and outrage thrives.

Instagram: The Shrine of Self

Instagram? Ah, the temple of self-indulgence.

Unless you’re selling something or building a brand, it’s mostly a time sink.

And let’s not even dive into the data privacy rabbit hole or the “you are the product” debate. We know that story by now.

So What’s the Point?

This isn’t a rant for the sake of it. I’m not saying it’s the devil and you must delete every app now and go live in a cave. Social media is here to stay. It’s about balance. About intentional engagement.

So next time you open that app, pause.

Ask yourself:

• “Is this worth my time?”

• “Does this help me connect with the people who really matter?”

• “Will I be glad I spent time on this?”

If the answer’s yes—carry on.

If not? Maybe it’s time to rethink the role of social media in your life.

If this resonates with you, and you’re exploring how to live more intentionally—especially in your work, relationships, or digital habits—I’d love to hear from you.

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