Relationships have changed. But for better or worse? Well, in this fast-paced world where our lives revolve around screens, they have become inevitable. So much so that screen time has started to interfere with relationships too. Whether it’s trust or intimacy, the impact of social media has become one of the main reasons behind partners drifting away. But how often has this thought occurred in your mind? And what have you done to make sure it doesn’t come between your love life?
How Social Media Affects Relationships
Well, to start with, there is no possible way to completely ignore social media, especially if you are a Gen Z. With the internet at your fingertips and phones in constant use, ignoring social media has become nearly impossible. Whether you go out on a date or watch a movie at night with your partner, checking out your phone once in a while has become second nature. This naturally impacts your relationship with your partner, unintentionally giving them a hint that a message, notification, or a call is more important than them.
The main purpose of going on dates or in general spending time with your partner is that you can know more about them, tell them about your day, ask them for their opinions, or just bond by sharing your feelings together. In failing to do so by diverting your attention to social media, you can create a feeling of rejection in your partner, which not only weakens your relationship but might also impact other aspects of your bond like intimacy.
How to Keep Your Bond Stronger Amid Social Media
1. Stop Prioritizing Screen Time
The first and best thing to avoid much screen time is by prioritizing its use. You must avoid using social media first thing in the morning and at the end of the night during bedtime. Rather you should actually focus on your partner and spend the first moments of your morning with them. At bedtime, try to talk about your day with your partner. This will not only get you two to know each other better but will also open many communication gates for you.
2. Limit Checking Your Phone
Whether it’s a date, a party you have gone to with your partner, a movie date, or simply a catchup lunch, make sure to limit checking your phone. Avoid jumping to check your phone whenever a notification comes. Turn off your phone if it has become a habit of yours to check the phone every now and then. This will give you some privacy when you are out with your partner.
3. Share Screen Time With Your Partner
The best thing to do, especially if social media is your workplace or way to earn money, is to share screen time with your partner. This involves making them a part of your social media life. You can either spend some time with them while watching reels on Instagram. You can also watch a cute vlog on YouTube to end the night. This will not only satisfy your need to use social media but also allow your partner to be a part of it.
4. Set Date Rules
Another good way to let social media not affect your relationship is by setting some date rules. One can be where you both don’t take your mobile phones out of your pockets during the date. Another could be switching them off during your intimate moments so that no buzz on the phone takes the buzz out of your fun.
While these are some of the ways to not let social media be a distraction in your love life, you can come up with your own ideas too to get it out of your bedroom and private moments for good. If you have any ideas for the same, do let us know!