“Mom, do you know something? Alia Bhatt just bought the same tissue box we bought from the grocery store yesterday”, screams a twelve-year-old young girl in extreme triumph and delight after seeing a story posted on the celebrity’s handle. Such a small trigger of absolute happiness and joy has made the same girl swift through the actress’ account and this is not a minute less than two hours. So here’s to social media, getting us tied up to our comfortable beds and restraining us from living the actual “social” life.

Social media and its impact on the world take two sides of a coin. On one hand, it has enriched bonds that are miles apart in distance which, yes, can be a threat to those teens whose fake group study plans are being constantly interrupted by the never-ending phone calls from home. But again, let’s look at the bright side, it has weaved bonds across nations and connected the world. Small businesses and entrepreneurs have also established their brand’s reputation by gaining a presence among the audience. From raising funds for a social cause to helping find a kidnapped young girl, social media has got it all covered. Various unjust issues faced by the common people are brought to the limelight and this has helped sculpt the people into better citizens. It has also made its way through the educational field as well. Motivational videos, shortcut tricks to study and stay productive, internship opportunities, and more are brought to youngsters through these platforms.

But on the side, less glittery, things are not that happy and nice. The main element is falling into social isolation. It is due to the “happy life”  portrayed in social media by influencers, celebrities, and even peers. This injects a sense of “not having a good life” or “not feeling happy” in the hearts of young teens and adults. This, in turn, makes them glue themselves to their homes as they fear being left out or not fitting in with the world. Children are often stuck to their phones, browsing through reels, while they should be out playing and observing elements from nature to build up their cognitive abilities. As the years roll by, they grow up to be individuals who don’t know the act of socializing with people. There was a time when grandparents told us about their past experiences and life, but nowadays it’s declining as both sides are busy, the elder generation looking for updates on their favorite TV shows or their neighbor’s daughter’s posts, and the younger generation endorsing themselves in reels. So what are we losing her? A valuable connection with people from different age groups whose viewpoints could yield a plethora of new ideas.

So let’s sum it all up together. Social media does come with its bag of opportunities and obstacles. I believe we should look at it with a judicious eye. Breathe in the positives and turn a blind eye towards the flaws. Let’s together combat the challenges put forth by the platform and focus on bringing the right balance to conquer the world as a better generation.