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Lisa as Social Media Coach

January 17, 2025 Lisa No Comments

Social media has become a powerful force shaping how we communicate, learn, and connect. But with its power comes complexity: it can inspire, inform, and empower us, yet it can also overwhelm and divide.

Navigating this intricate digital landscape requires more than a list of do’s and don’ts. It demands a thoughtful, intentional approach rooted in self-awareness, balance, and personal growth.

That’s where Lisa comes in — your social media coach.

The addendum to this blog serves as a manual, offering practical guidance to transform your online experience into one that aligns with your values, nurtures your well-being, and promotes meaningful connections. With Coaching Lisa [Ask Lisa], you’ll receive tailored insights and actionable steps to:

• Manage the challenges of comparison, negativity, or excessive scrolling.
• Build a positive online presence that reflects your authentic self.
• Use social media as a tool for growth and empowerment.

Each question in this blog comes with opportunities to engage directly with Lisa for personalized support. Ready to make social media work for you? Let’s explore:

• 10 positive effects of social media on users
• 10 negative effects of social media on users
• 10 ways to maximize the positive effects while minimizing the negatives – From the side of social media platforms
• 10 ways to maximize the positive effects while minimizing the negatives – From the side of users
• 10 questions users might ask ‘Lisa as Social Media Coach’ and first answers to each

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The Responsibility of Social Media Platforms

While social media users bear significant responsibility for their behavior online, this doesn’t absolve platforms of their role in shaping a healthy and respectful digital environment. Platforms have immense power over the culture and interactions within their ecosystems, and with great power comes great responsibility.

Beyond Algorithms

Algorithms drive engagement, often prioritizing sensational or divisive content that captures attention but may harm mental well-being. Platforms must go beyond this narrow focus and take proactive steps to foster a space that promotes meaningful connections and reduces harm. This includes moderating content effectively, combating misinformation, and addressing harassment robustly.

Introducing Lisa: The Social Media Coach

One innovative step forward could be integrating Lisa, the social media coach, directly into platforms — at the user’s consent and request. With Lisa’s support embedded into the platform experience, users can receive real-time guidance to navigate the complexities of online interactions with greater ease and empathy.

How Lisa Could Support Users on Social Media Platforms

• Framing constructive comments

When users write posts or responses, Lisa could provide subtle suggestions to ensure their words are constructive, respectful, and aligned with their intentions.

Example: “This comment could be misinterpreted. Would you like to add a clarifying phrase to reduce misunderstandings?”

• Understanding unfriendly comments

Lisa could help users process negative comments without reacting impulsively, offering insight into possible motivations behind the comment and suggestions for calm responses — or no response at all.

Example: “This comment might stem from a misunderstanding or frustration. Would you prefer to clarify, disengage, or reflect before replying?”

• Identifying and mitigating harmful patterns

Lisa could help users recognize when certain types of content or interactions are affecting their mental health and suggest adjustments, such as muting specific accounts or taking a break.

Example: “You’ve viewed several stressful posts today. Would you like a break or suggestions for uplifting content?”

• Encouraging positivity

Lisa could nudge users toward sharing uplifting and constructive content, contributing to a healthier online environment.

Example: “This is a great opportunity to share a positive experience or perspective. How can you inspire your audience today?”

• Providing personalized digital well-being metrics

Lisa could analyze a user’s activity patterns and provide non-intrusive feedback to promote a balanced relationship with the platform.

Example: “You’ve been online for two hours straight. Would you like a suggestion for an offline activity?”

Balancing responsibility

While these tools would empower users to engage meaningfully, the platform’s role would remain crucial. They must:

• Ensure transparency: Inform users clearly about how algorithms work and why they see certain content.
• Commit to safety: Invest in technologies and teams that address harmful content swiftly and effectively.
• Collaborate for innovation: Partner with initiatives like Lisa to prioritize user well-being over mere engagement.

By integrating coaching and guidance into their ecosystems, social media platforms can align their business goals with societal responsibility, empowering users to flourish in both their online and offline lives. This collaborative approach benefits everyone — users, platforms, and society at large.

The Responsibility of Social Media Platforms

While social media users bear significant responsibility for their behavior online, this doesn’t absolve platforms of their role in shaping a healthy and respectful digital environment. Platforms have immense power over the culture and interactions within their ecosystems, and with great power comes great responsibility.

Beyond Algorithms

Algorithms drive engagement, often prioritizing sensational or divisive content that captures attention but may harm mental well-being. Platforms must go beyond this narrow focus and take proactive steps to foster a space that promotes meaningful connections and reduces harm. This includes moderating content effectively, combating misinformation, and addressing harassment robustly.

Introducing Lisa: The Social Media Coach

One innovative step forward could be integrating Lisa, the social media coach, directly into platforms — at the user’s consent and request. With Lisa’s support embedded into the platform experience, users can receive real-time guidance to navigate the complexities of online interactions with greater ease and empathy.

How Lisa Could Support Users on Social Media Platforms

• Framing constructive comments

When users write posts or responses, Lisa could provide subtle suggestions to ensure their words are constructive, respectful, and aligned with their intentions.

Example: “This comment could be misinterpreted. Would you like to add a clarifying phrase to reduce misunderstandings?”

• Understanding unfriendly comments

Lisa could help users process negative comments without reacting impulsively, offering insight into possible motivations behind the comment and suggestions for calm responses — or no response at all.

Example: “This comment might stem from a misunderstanding or frustration. Would you prefer to clarify, disengage, or reflect before replying?”

• Identifying and mitigating harmful patterns

Lisa could help users recognize when certain types of content or interactions are affecting their mental health and suggest adjustments, such as muting specific accounts or taking a break.

Example: “You’ve viewed several stressful posts today. Would you like a break or suggestions for uplifting content?”

• Encouraging positivity

Lisa could nudge users toward sharing uplifting and constructive content, contributing to a healthier online environment.

Example: “This is a great opportunity to share a positive experience or perspective. How can you inspire your audience today?”

• Providing personalized digital well-being metrics

Lisa could analyze a user’s activity patterns and provide non-intrusive feedback to promote a balanced relationship with the platform.

Example: “You’ve been online for two hours straight. Would you like a suggestion for an offline activity?”

Balancing responsibility

While these tools would empower users to engage meaningfully, the platform’s role would remain crucial. They must:

• Ensure transparency: Inform users clearly about how algorithms work and why they see certain content.
• Commit to safety: Invest in technologies and teams that address harmful content swiftly and effectively.
• Collaborate for innovation: Partner with initiatives like Lisa to prioritize user well-being over mere engagement.

By integrating coaching and guidance into their ecosystems, social media platforms can align their business goals with societal responsibility, empowering users to flourish in both their online and offline lives. This collaborative approach benefits everyone — users, platforms, and society at large.

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Addendum

10 positive effects of social media on users

• Enhanced connectivity

Keeps people connected across distances, fostering relationships with family, friends, and global communities.

• Access to information

Provides instant access to news, education, and resources, empowering users with knowledge.

• Platform for self-expression

Allows individuals to share their creativity, thoughts, and talents, building confidence and personal identity.

• Opportunities for networking

Facilitates professional connections and career opportunities through platforms like LinkedIn and specialized groups.

• Supportive communities

Offers spaces for like-minded individuals to share experiences and support each other, especially for marginalized groups.

• Promotes awareness and advocacy

Amplifies social, political, and environmental causes, enabling users to participate in meaningful activism.

• Business and marketing opportunities

Empowers entrepreneurs and small businesses to reach broader audiences and grow their ventures cost-effectively.

• Educational resources

Makes learning accessible through tutorials, webinars, and content from experts in various fields.

• Entertainment

Provides diverse forms of entertainment, from memes to live events, catering to varied interests.

• Health and wellness support

Encourages mental and physical well-being through fitness challenges, mindfulness apps, and motivational content.

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10 negative effects of social media on users

• Mental health issues

Increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness due to comparison with idealized portrayals of others’ lives.

• Addiction

Excessive screen time fosters dependency, leading to a compulsion to check notifications or scroll endlessly.

• Reduced attention span

Overexposure to fast, bite-sized content diminishes the ability to focus on longer, more meaningful activities.

• Cyberbullying

Harassment, trolling, and abusive behavior online cause emotional distress, especially for vulnerable individuals.

• Sleep disruption

The blue light from screens and late-night scrolling interfere with natural sleep patterns.

• Distorted self-image

Filters, curated content, and unrealistic standards promote body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem.

• Misinformation spread

Fake news and unchecked rumors propagate rapidly, leading to confusion and harmful real-world consequences.

• Social Isolation

Paradoxically, excessive virtual interaction may replace face-to-face connections, leaving users feeling more isolated.

• Polarization and echo chambers

Algorithms reinforce biases by presenting like-minded content, reducing exposure to diverse perspectives.

• Overemphasis on validation

Dependence on likes, comments, and shares fosters a need for external approval, detracting from intrinsic self-worth.

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10 ways to maximize the positive effects while minimizing the negatives – From the Side of Social Media Platforms

• Enhance algorithm transparency

Clearly communicate how content is prioritized and provide options for users to customize their feeds, reducing negative impacts like echo chambers.

• Prioritize quality content

Design algorithms to reward educational, uplifting, and verified content, discouraging misinformation and harmful material.

• Promote digital well-being features

Integrate reminders for breaks, usage insights, and settings to limit screen time, encouraging healthy user habits.

• Moderate harmful content effectively

Invest in AI and human moderators to swiftly address cyberbullying, hate speech, and graphic content.

• Encourage diverse interactions

Introduce features that expose users to varied perspectives and cultures, reducing polarization and fostering empathy.

• Collaborate with mental health experts

Partner with organizations to provide resources and tools for mental health support directly on the platform.

• Reward positive behavior

Recognize and promote users who share helpful, respectful, and constructive content.

• Enable parental controls

Offer robust options for parents to monitor and guide their children’s social media use.

• Promote community engagement

Facilitate offline events, discussions, and meetups to strengthen real-world connections inspired by online interactions.

• Adopt ethical advertising practices

Limit intrusive or harmful ads and ensure transparency about data collection and usage.

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10 ways to maximize the positive effects while minimizing the negatives – From the side of users

• Set boundaries for screen time

Use built-in timers or third-party apps to limit usage and maintain a healthy balance with offline life.

• Be mindful of content consumption

Follow accounts that inspire and educate while muting or unfollowing those that negatively impact your mental well-being.

• Fact-check information

Verify the credibility of news and posts before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation.

• Engage positively

Practice kindness in comments and avoid engaging in toxic arguments or trolling.

• Diversify your feed

Follow a mix of viewpoints, cultures, and interests to broaden perspectives and reduce echo chambers.

• Take social media breaks

Periodically disconnect to focus on in-person relationships, hobbies, and self-reflection.

• Be conscious of validation needs

Limit reliance on likes and shares for self-esteem by focusing on intrinsic goals and achievements.

• Leverage social media for growth

Use platforms to learn new skills, explore creative outlets, and engage in meaningful advocacy or community building.

• Protect privacy

Adjust privacy settings to control who can view your content and minimize exposure to unwanted interactions.

• Report and block harmful content

Actively report inappropriate or harmful content to improve platform moderation and ensure a safer space for all users.

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10 questions users might ask ‘Lisa as Social Media Coach’ and first answers to each

• How can I stop comparing myself to others on social media?

Answer: Start by curating your feed to follow accounts that inspire you rather than make you feel inadequate. Reflect on the reality behind the posts—social media often showcases highlights, not everyday struggles. Focus on your own growth and achievements offline. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• I feel overwhelmed by negative news online. How do I manage this?

Answer: Set boundaries for consuming news, like specific times or trusted sources. Balance your feed with positive, uplifting content. Reflect on what you can control and consider taking meaningful action on causes that matter to you. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• How can I handle cyberbullying or toxic comments?

Answer: Block or report harmful users to maintain a safe space for yourself. Avoid engaging in negativity. Reflect on the root of your emotional reaction, and seek support if needed—it’s okay to lean on trusted friends or communities. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• I spend too much time scrolling. How can I reduce my screen time?

Answer: Use app timers or focus features to limit time on social media. Schedule offline activities that you enjoy, like hobbies or exercise. Reflect on what you’re seeking when scrolling—are there deeper needs, like connection, that could be fulfilled differently? [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• How do I build a positive social media presence?

Answer: Share content that reflects your authentic self and adds value to others. Engage kindly and meaningfully with others’ posts. Focus less on likes and more on genuine interactions and the joy of sharing. [More-insights][Ask Lisa]

• How can I use social media for personal growth?

Answer: Follow accounts that offer educational, motivational, or skill-building content. Set goals for what you want to learn or achieve through your online presence. Use the platform as a tool for inspiration, not distraction. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• Social media makes me anxious. Should I quit altogether?

Answer: You don’t need to quit, but taking breaks or scaling back can help. Reflect on how and why you use social media. If it doesn’t serve your well-being, focus on offline connections and consider a mindful approach to re-engaging later. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• How do I fact-check information before sharing it?

Answer: Check the source of the content—is it credible and verified? Look for multiple, independent reports on the topic. Reflect on whether sharing adds value to your audience or if it could unintentionally spread harm. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• How do I deal with feeling left out when I see friends posting fun activities?

Answer: Remember that social media often highlights moments, not the full story. Reflect on your own meaningful experiences and consider reaching out to friends for genuine connection instead of focusing on their posts. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

• How can I make social media work for my business without feeling stressed?

Answer: Create a clear content plan that aligns with your goals. Schedule posts in advance and avoid obsessively checking for engagement. Reflect on your core message and the value you bring to your audience, focusing on authenticity over perfection. [More insights][Ask Lisa]

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Follow-up insights and prompts

Question: How can I stop comparing myself to others on social media?

• Why do we compare?

Social media creates a curated, idealized version of reality. It’s natural to compare, but this tendency often stems from deeper insecurities or unfulfilled needs.
[Ask Lisa]: “What triggers the comparison? Is it a specific type of content, person, or situation?”

• Reframing comparison

Comparison can be a tool for growth when used constructively. Instead of feeling inadequate, try to see inspiration in others’ success.
[Ask Lisa]: “How might you view someone’s achievement as motivation rather than a measure of your worth?”

• Gratitude practice

Regularly practicing gratitude shifts focus from what you lack to what you already have.
[Ask Lisa]: “What are three things you’re proud of or grateful for today, unrelated to social media?”

• Mindful scrolling

Awareness during scrolling can help identify negative patterns. Pause to notice how each post makes you feel.
[Ask Lisa]: “How does your body react when you see certain posts? What emotions arise, and why might that be?”

• Disconnect to reconnect

Spend more time offline focusing on activities that nurture your self-esteem, such as hobbies or spending time with supportive people.
[Ask Lisa]: “What offline activities bring you joy and help you feel grounded? Can you schedule more time for them?”

• Set a goal for online presence

Define your purpose for being on social media—whether it’s staying informed, connecting with loved ones, or finding inspiration.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is your main reason for using social media? Is your current usage aligned with that purpose?”

• Challenge unrealistic standards

Remind yourself that filters, editing, and curation distort reality.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you identify one post today that seems overly curated? How do you think the person’s real life might differ from what’s shown?”

• Daily affirmations

Reinforce positive self-beliefs with affirmations that counteract feelings of inadequacy.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is one positive affirmation you can say to yourself when you feel the urge to compare?”

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Question: I feel overwhelmed by negative news online. How do I manage this?

• Understand the emotional impact

Negative news often triggers feelings of anxiety or helplessness. Recognizing this is the first step to managing your response.
[Ask Lisa]: “What emotions arise when you encounter negative news? How do they affect your mood and daily life?”

• Set time limits

Designate specific times for consuming news, such as morning or afternoon, and avoid it right before bedtime.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you set a limit on how often you check the news each day? What time of day feels most manageable?”

• Curate your sources

Choose reputable news outlets and avoid sensationalized or overly dramatic headlines.
[Ask Lisa]: “What are your go-to sources for reliable information? Are they helping you stay informed or increasing stress?”

• Balance your feed

Follow accounts that focus on positive developments, solutions, and inspiring stories.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you identify three accounts that bring positivity to your social media experience?”

• Focus on what you can control

Instead of dwelling on events you can’t influence, direct energy toward actions within your reach, such as volunteering or advocacy.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is one small action you could take today to contribute positively to an issue you care about?”

• Practice mindfulness

Engage in mindfulness or relaxation exercises to center yourself after exposure to upsetting news.
[Ask Lisa]: “How do you usually calm your mind after reading stressful news? Would you like to explore mindfulness techniques together?”

• Take breaks from news

Periodic breaks can help you reset and maintain perspective.
[Ask Lisa]: “What would happen if you took a day or weekend off from consuming news? How might that feel?”

• Discuss with trusted individuals

Sharing your thoughts with friends or family can help process emotions and gain different perspectives.
[Ask Lisa]: “Is there someone you trust to discuss the news with in a constructive way?”

• Focus on local and tangible changes

Engage with your local community to see the direct impact of your efforts, offering a counterbalance to global overwhelm.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is one local issue you could get involved with to make a difference?”

• Create a positive news ritual

End your news session with uplifting stories to leave on a hopeful note.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you make it a habit to find one positive story each time you read the news?”

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Question: How can I handle cyberbullying or toxic comments?

• Do not engage

Responding to toxic comments often escalates conflict. Instead, disengage and protect your peace.
[Ask Lisa]: “How might ignoring or walking away from the situation feel empowering rather than weak?”

• Use blocking and reporting tools

Social media platforms have tools to block or report abusive users—use them to maintain a safe environment.
[Ask Lisa]: “Have you explored the blocking or reporting features on your platform? Could you try them now?”

• Set clear boundaries

Establish firm limits on what you will tolerate online and stick to them.
[Ask Lisa]: “What behaviors are absolutely unacceptable to you? How can you communicate or enforce those boundaries?”

• Build emotional resilience

Remind yourself that toxic comments often reflect the commenter’s issues, not your worth.
[Ask Lisa]: “What affirmation can you tell yourself to neutralize the impact of a toxic comment?”

• Save evidence if necessary

If bullying becomes severe, document the comments for potential action with authorities or platform administrators.
[Ask Lisa]: “Could saving screenshots of these comments help you feel more prepared to act?”

• Focus on positive interactions

Surround yourself with supportive communities to counterbalance negativity.
[Ask Lisa]: “Who in your online circle uplifts and supports you? Can you engage with them more often?”

• Seek support when needed

Talk to trusted friends, family, or even a professional about how the bullying affects you.
[Ask Lisa]: “Who could you reach out to for advice or comfort when you feel hurt by online comments?”

• Limit exposure

If negativity persists, consider taking a break from the platform to regain balance.
[Ask Lisa]: “Could stepping away from social media for a day help you reset your mindset?”

• Practice empathy (if possible)

Recognizing that toxic commenters may act out of their own pain can help you depersonalize their remarks.
[Ask Lisa]: “What might this person be experiencing to act this way? How can you avoid internalizing their negativity?”

• Promote a positive space

Actively share content that reflects kindness and respect, setting a tone for how you expect to be treated.
[Ask Lisa]: “What positive message or content could you share today to shift the energy in your online space?”

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Question: I spend too much time scrolling. How can I reduce my screen time?

·  Understand the root cause

Identify what drives your excessive scrolling—boredom, stress, procrastination, or a desire for connection.
[Ask Lisa]: “What do you feel you are searching for when you scroll? Connection? Relaxation? Something else?”

·  Set clear limits

Use app features or external apps like Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android) to track and limit daily usage.
[Ask Lisa]: “Could you set a daily screen time goal? How much time feels manageable to you?”

·  Establish tech-free Zones:
Create boundaries by keeping your phone out of specific spaces like the bedroom or dining area.
[Ask Lisa]: “What areas or times of day could you designate as phone-free?”

·  Replace scrolling with engaging activities

Plan offline alternatives that fulfill the same need, such as reading, exercising, or spending time with friends.
[Ask Lisa]: “What activity could give you the same enjoyment as scrolling—maybe a hobby you’ve been neglecting?”

·  Batch your social media time

Instead of sporadically checking throughout the day, set specific times to use social media.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you designate 15–30 minutes in your schedule for intentional social media use?”

·  Practice mindful usage

Before opening an app, pause and ask yourself why you’re doing so. This helps disrupt habitual scrolling.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is your purpose for opening this app right now? Is there another way to meet that need?”

·  Turn off notifications

Reduce distractions by disabling non-essential notifications, so you’re not tempted to check your phone impulsively.
[Ask Lisa]: “What notifications could you turn off to reclaim your attention?”

·  Limit multi-app usage

Focus on just 1–2 favorite platforms to avoid getting overwhelmed or bouncing between apps.
[Ask Lisa]: “Which platforms bring you the most value? Could you deactivate the others for a while?”

·  Reflect on time well-spent

After using social media, evaluate how it made you feel. Use this reflection to guide future habits.
[Ask Lisa]: “Did your time scrolling leave you feeling good or drained? How could you adjust next time?”

·  Celebrate small wins

Reward yourself for meeting screen-time goals, reinforcing positive changes in behavior.
[Ask Lisa]: “What small reward can you give yourself for staying within your screen-time limits today?”

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Question: How do I build a positive social media presence?

·  Clarify your purpose

Identify what you want to achieve with your online presence—whether it’s personal connection, professional growth, or inspiring others.
[Ask Lisa]: “What do you want people to feel or take away from your posts?”

·  Define your brand or identity

Consider what makes you unique and how you can communicate that consistently through your content.
[Ask Lisa]: “What three words best describe your desired online persona?”

·  Share authentic stories

Post genuine experiences and thoughts rather than trying to meet external expectations.
[Ask Lisa]: “What recent personal story could you share that reflects your values?”

·  Engage positively

Like, comment, and share others’ posts with sincerity and encouragement. Positive interactions amplify your presence.
[Ask Lisa]: “How can you brighten someone’s day through your comments today?”

·  Focus on adding value

Share knowledge, inspiration, or humor that benefits others rather than just seeking attention.
[Ask Lisa]: “What’s one piece of advice or insight you could share that would help your audience?”

·  Leverage visual consistency

Use cohesive visuals, themes, or filters that align with your message, helping your profile stand out.
[Ask Lisa]: “How can your visuals enhance your content’s message and reflect your personality?”

·  Avoid toxic trends

Stay away from negativity or divisive content to maintain an uplifting space.
[Ask Lisa]: “Are there any trends or discussions you could skip to keep your space positive?”

·  Balance personal and broader content

Share a mix of personal posts and content addressing broader issues or interests relevant to your audience.
[Ask Lisa]: “What broader topic or cause resonates with you that you’d like to share about?”

·  Respond thoughtfully

Reply to comments and messages with care, fostering deeper connections.
[Ask Lisa]: “How can you show gratitude or connection in your responses today?”

·  Track growth mindfully

Focus on meaningful metrics, like engagement quality or positive feedback, rather than just follower count.
[Ask Lisa]: “What feedback or interaction has been most fulfilling for you recently?”

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Question: How can I use social media for personal growth?

• Identify your growth goals

Define specific areas where you want to grow, such as skills, mindset, or knowledge.
[Ask Lisa]: “What skill, topic, or personal quality would you like to develop using social media?”

• Curate your feed

Follow creators, thought leaders, or organizations that align with your growth goals.
[Ask Lisa]: “Who inspires you or offers valuable insights on social media? Can you follow more accounts like theirs?”

• Engage in meaningful discussions

Comment thoughtfully on posts to connect with like-minded individuals and deepen your understanding.
[Ask Lisa]: “What’s a recent post you’ve seen that you could engage with by sharing your perspective?”

• Participate in challenges and groups

Join online communities or participate in challenges that align with your interests, like fitness, mindfulness, or learning new skills.
[Ask Lisa]: “Is there a group or hashtag you could explore to find a supportive community?”

• Share your progress

Document your journey and reflections to create accountability and inspire others.
[Ask Lisa]: “What small win or insight from your personal growth journey could you share today?”

• Balance consumption with creation

Avoid passive scrolling by actively creating content that reflects your growth.
[Ask Lisa]: “What type of post could you create today that aligns with your growth goals?”

• Leverage free resources

Use tutorials, webinars, and free resources offered on platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, or Instagram.
[Ask Lisa]: “What free resource or guide could you explore today to learn something new?”

• Set social media intentions

Before using social media, decide what you want to gain from your time online.
[Ask Lisa]: “What’s your main intention for logging in today—learning, connecting, or creating?”

• Track your progress

Reflect periodically on how social media has supported your growth and adjust your habits as needed.
[Ask Lisa]: “How has your use of social media contributed to your personal growth this past month?”

• Limit distractions

Unfollow accounts that don’t align with your goals to stay focused and intentional.
[Ask Lisa]: “Are there any accounts or types of content you could let go of to make space for growth-oriented posts?”

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Question: Social media makes me anxious. Should I quit altogether?

• Identify the anxiety triggers

Pinpoint what aspects of social media make you anxious—comparison, negativity, or information overload.
[Ask Lisa]: “What specific content or interactions tend to make you feel anxious?”

• Limit exposure to triggers

Unfollow or mute accounts that contribute to stress and focus on uplifting or neutral content.
[Ask Lisa]: “Are there accounts or topics you could avoid to protect your mental space?”

• Take a social media detox

Temporarily disconnect to reset and evaluate how social media impacts your mental health.
[Ask Lisa]: “Could you take a one-day or weekend break from social media? How might that feel?”

• Establish boundaries

Set clear limits on when and how long you use social media to prevent anxiety from creeping into your daily life.
[Ask Lisa]: “What boundaries can you set to create a healthier relationship with social media?”

• Practice mindful engagement

Focus on using social media with intention, whether it’s for learning, connecting, or creating.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is your purpose for logging in today? How can you make your experience intentional?”

• Balance online and offline connections

Strengthen real-world relationships and activities to reduce reliance on social media for validation or connection.
[Ask Lisa]: “What offline activity or relationship could you focus on to feel more grounded?”

• Replace scrolling with self-care

Use time spent on social media for activities that promote relaxation or joy, like reading, exercising, or journaling.
[Ask Lisa]: “What self-care activity could you replace social media with today?”

• Reframe your perspective

Remember that social media is just a tool. How you use it determines its impact on your mental state.
[Ask Lisa]: “How can you remind yourself that social media is a choice, not an obligation?”

• Consider partial quitting

If quitting entirely feels drastic, focus on reducing usage or quitting certain platforms that cause the most anxiety.
[Ask Lisa]: “Is there a specific platform you could stop using while keeping the ones that feel manageable?”

• Seek professional support if needed

If social media anxiety feels overwhelming, consider talking to a therapist or counselor for guidance.
[Ask Lisa]: “Would seeking outside help support you in navigating your social media anxiety?”

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Question: How do I fact-check information before sharing it?

• Verify the source

Start by checking if the information comes from a reputable source, such as well-known news outlets, academic institutions, or verified experts.
[Ask Lisa]: “Is the source of this information credible and reliable? How do you know?”

• Cross-check multiple sources

Look for confirmation of the same information from multiple independent outlets to ensure accuracy.
[Ask Lisa]: “Have you found at least two other sources that confirm this claim?”

• Identify biases

Evaluate whether the source or the content has a specific agenda that might influence the information.
[Ask Lisa]: “Does this source or post seem biased? How might that affect the accuracy of the information?”

• Check dates and context

Verify that the information is current and not being shared out of its original context, which can distort its meaning.
[Ask Lisa]: “Is this information recent and relevant to today’s context, or is it outdated or repurposed?”

• Look for supporting evidence

Investigate whether the information includes data, references, or direct links to credible research.
[Ask Lisa]: “Does this claim provide any evidence, such as statistics or expert quotes?”

• Beware of sensationalism

Be cautious of headlines or posts that use extreme language or emotional appeals to grab attention.
[Ask Lisa]: “Does this headline seem designed to provoke outrage or shock? Could it be misleading?”

• Use fact-checking tools

Utilize websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, or PolitiFact to verify claims quickly.
[Ask Lisa]: “Have you run this information through a fact-checking platform to confirm its validity?”

• Question the purpose of sharing

Reflect on whether sharing the information serves a constructive purpose or might spread unnecessary fear or misinformation.
[Ask Lisa]: “How will sharing this information help or impact your audience?”

• Ask for expert opinions

When in doubt, consult someone knowledgeable in the relevant field for their perspective.
[Ask Lisa]: “Do you know an expert or credible source who could help clarify this claim?”

• Educate yourself on misinformation tactics

Learn common strategies used to spread fake news, such as fake URLs or manipulated images, to spot them more easily.
[Ask Lisa]: “What patterns in this post might suggest it’s misleading or false?”

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Question: How do I deal with feeling left out when I see friends posting fun activities?

·  Recognize the highlight reel

Acknowledge that social media shows curated highlights, not everyday realities.
[Ask Lisa]: “How might the moments not shown online change your perception of what you’re seeing?”

·  Shift focus to gratitude

Reflect on your own joys and accomplishments instead of comparing them to others.
[Ask Lisa]: “What are three things you’ve done recently that made you happy or proud?”

·  Plan your own fun

Use these feelings as motivation to create enjoyable moments for yourself, either solo or with others.
[Ask Lisa]: “What’s an activity you’ve been wanting to try? Who could you invite to join you?”

·  Reach out to friends

Instead of feeling excluded, take the opportunity to connect directly with those friends.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you message a friend whose post made you feel left out and suggest meeting up?”

·  Limit triggers

Mute or unfollow accounts that consistently make you feel excluded or inadequate.
[Ask Lisa]: “Are there specific accounts you could mute to protect your well-being?”

·  Reframe the experience

Consider others’ happiness as a source of inspiration rather than comparison.
[Ask Lisa]: “How can you celebrate your friends’ joy without feeling like you’re missing out?”

·  Reflect on real-life connections

Strengthen relationships offline to reduce dependence on social media for connection.
[Ask Lisa]: “Who in your life makes you feel valued? How can you nurture that relationship?”

·  Create offline habits

Dedicate time to hobbies, volunteering, or other fulfilling activities that keep you engaged.
[Ask Lisa]: “What offline activity could you do regularly that brings you a sense of belonging?”

·  Practice mindful social media use

Before scrolling, set an intention to engage positively and avoid comparison traps.
[Ask Lisa]: “Why are you logging in right now, and how can you use this time to feel good?”

·  Develop self-Compassion

Acknowledge and validate your feelings of exclusion without self-criticism.
[Ask Lisa]: “What kind words can you offer yourself when you feel left out?”

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Question: How can I make social media work for my business without feeling stressed?

• Clarify your goals

Define specific, measurable objectives for your social media presence. Are you aiming to build brand awareness, increase sales, or foster a community?
[Ask Lisa]: “What is the primary purpose of your social media for your business? How does this align with your broader goals?”

• Plan strategically

Develop a content calendar with posts scheduled ahead of time. Include a mix of promotional, educational, and engaging content to maintain balance.
[Ask Lisa]: “What themes or topics best represent your brand? Can you plan a week’s worth of content today?”

• Focus on quality over quantity

Posting fewer, high-quality pieces can be more effective than overwhelming your audience with frequent, rushed content.
[Ask Lisa]: “What is the most valuable message you can share with your audience this week?”

• Leverage scheduling tools

Use platforms like Buffer, Hootsuite, or Meta Business Suite to schedule posts, freeing up time for other tasks.
[Ask Lisa]: “Have you tried scheduling your posts in advance? How might this reduce daily stress?”

• Engage, don’t obsess

Interact with comments and messages during set periods rather than constantly monitoring notifications.
[Ask Lisa]: “Can you set aside 15 minutes a day to respond to audience interactions without checking notifications all day?”

• Track performance wisely

Focus on key metrics aligned with your goals (e.g., engagement rate, click-through rate) rather than vanity metrics like likes.
[Ask Lisa]: “What social media metrics matter most to your business? Are you tracking them effectively?”

• Stay authentic

Share stories that reflect your brand’s values and vision. Authenticity builds trust and deepens connections with your audience.
[Ask Lisa]: “What personal or behind-the-scenes story could you share to connect with your audience?”

• Pace yourself

Avoid overcommitting to too many platforms. Focus on 1–2 platforms where your target audience is most active.
[Ask Lisa]: “Which platform generates the most meaningful engagement for your business? Could you streamline your focus there?”

• Collaborate and delegate

If possible, delegate tasks like content creation or moderation to team members or freelancers.
[Ask Lisa]: “Are there tasks you could delegate to free up your time and energy?”

• Celebrate wins

Acknowledge milestones, even small ones, to maintain motivation and enthusiasm.
[Ask Lisa]: “What recent achievement on social media are you most proud of? How can you build on this success?”