Siddarth Shukla

In today’s digital age, we spend an enormous amount of time on social media platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. These platforms are often inundated with underlying messages of fear—fear of missing out on vacations, gourmet meals, perfect bodies, or the luxurious lifestyles of influencers. Such messages create a cacophony of noise, promoting a false sense of success that can lead to feelings of inadequacy and discontent.

A troubling trend that has emerged alongside this is the denigration of the traditional 9-to-5 job. Social media often portrays such employment as a form of modern slavery, suggesting that those who work these jobs are trapped and unfulfilled. However, this portrayal is far from accurate. Working a 9-to-5 job often means sitting in a comfortable, air-conditioned office, with the freedom to leave at any time and fair compensation based on market dynamics. It is far from slavery; rather, it is a structured form of employment that offers stability and financial independence.

The pervasive negativity on social media can erode our self-esteem and make us feel inferior. To combat this, it is essential to develop a fresh perspective. One effective strategy is to cut out the noise on weekends, dedicating time to family and friends and staying present in the moment. This helps to reset our minds and focus on what truly matters. However, social media can also serve as a tool for self-reflection and understanding our impulses. By observing our reactions to what we see online, we can discern between pleasure-seeking and truth-seeking impulses.

Amidst the barrage of curated content, we occasionally glimpse authenticity. We may intuitively sense when someone’s online persona is not a true representation of their real life. This discernment is crucial in navigating the digital world, where some people are genuinely investigating and sharing truths, while others are merely signaling for attention. This raises questions about ethics and morality, highlighting the differences in how individuals choose to represent themselves.

Ethics and morality are not confined to the material world; they transcend space and time, often passed down through generations. Stories of our grandparents’ integrity and moral values provide a roadmap for living ethically. As I approach fatherhood, I find myself contemplating the values I want to instill in my children. I do not want to be a distracted father but one who is loving. A distracted person cannot truly love, as love requires presence and attention. To love my children fully, I need to resolve my psychological issues and stay present in the moment. This involves working on my fears, refining my perspective, and focusing on what truly matters. Love, while seemingly simple, is a complex and multifaceted concept. It is not about indulging every whim or seeking validation, but about guiding, encouraging, and teaching them to seek truth with an open heart.

One of the joys of parenthood is experiencing the world anew through a child’s eyes. Their excitement over simple things, like a butterfly or green grass, reminds us of the beauty in the mundane. Encouraging children to seek truth and respect others’ perspectives is essential. In my 34 years, I have found that meditation helps align body and mind, fostering an inner awareness that is often drowned out by external stimuli.

Today’s generation is bombarded with sensory overload. From seductive smells in malls to the constant stream of images on Instagram, our senses are perpetually engaged. This makes it challenging to connect with our inner selves. The relentless external stimulation can turn us into zombies, controlled and distracted by consumption-driven impulses. A dopamine detox can be beneficial, helping us reconnect with our true selves and act with love rather than distraction.

Cultivating discipline by avoiding distractions and doing one thing at a time helps create a devoted state of mind.

Writing has become a valuable tool for self-introspection. It allows me to tap into wisdom I didn’t know I possessed, fostering a deeper connection with my heart and feelings. Love, in its purest form, is the most sustainable and efficient way to live. Negative emotions like regret, resentment, and anger consume energy, while love keeps us light and buoyant. Achieving our goals requires a heartfelt devotion, and if we truly love something, we will develop the discipline needed to pursue it wholeheartedly.

In summary, navigating social media requires a conscious effort to maintain perspective and authenticity. By understanding our impulses, embracing ethical values, and fostering love and presence in our lives, we can rise above the noise and live more fulfilling, authentic lives.