Change Your Feed, Change Your Life

We are all born into networks of friends, family, and communities that shape our mentality, beliefs, and reservations. These environments often provide stability and comfort, but they can also confine us to familiar patterns of thinking and behavior. Over time, the ideas we engage with and the goals we set may be heavily influenced by the norms of these networks, leaving little room for exploration or growth. While immersing oneself in new environments or seeking guidance from books and mentors has historically been the pathway to personal transformation, today’s fast-paced world offers another, faster alternative: curating your digital feed.

In 2024, people worldwide spent an average of 2 hours and 23 minutes daily on social media, with U.S. users aged 18 to 24 averaging 186 minutes. This time, often spent scrolling, can reinforce beliefs or foster growth, depending on the content. While platforms offer tools to customize feeds by following individuals or choosing categories like "leadership," categories don’t always guarantee quality, as not all “experts” are credible. With AI-generated content on the rise, handpicking who to follow takes effort but ensures a meaningful feed. Previewing a few posts before committing helps you build a digital space that aligns with your values. When curated thoughtfully, social media and online platforms transform into powerful tools for self-improvement, helping you build a digital ecosystem that inspires, motivates, and challenges you to grow.

At the same time, it’s essential to recognize how social dynamics can create invisible barriers. Humans are naturally drawn to people who share their values and beliefs, a phenomenon often described as “birds of a feather flock together.” While this can create a sense of belonging, it can also limit our aspirations and perspectives. Social media amplifies this effect by feeding us more of what we already know, creating an echo chamber that restricts growth. But life is too short to let inherited networks and digital algorithms define your horizons. Growth begins with stepping back and questioning what truly matters. By curating the influences in your life—be it the books you read, the people you follow, or the conversations you engage in—you take control of your mental environment. Life isn’t about staying stuck—it’s about reaching for the limitless horizon. Take control, live with curiosity, and embrace the journey to become your best self.

To enhance your social media experience and gain insights from top experts in your areas of interest, consider the following approach using chatGPT or other AI bots:

1. Identify Reputable Sources: Select credible platforms or channels that align with your interests, such as leadership, finance, or artificial intelligence. For instance, you might choose the Harvard Business Review (HBR) podcast for leadership insights or a well-regarded AI-focused YouTube channel.
2. Utilize the Following Prompt: For each chosen platform, use this prompt to gather information about key contributors:

"Provide a detailed list of at least 50 individuals who have participated in content on [YouTube Channel URL], including their LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and Instagram profiles. Ensure all links are active and verified."

Replace "[YouTube Channel URL]" with the specific URL of the channel or platform you're interested in.

1. Curate Your Feed: After obtaining the list of contributors, review their profiles to ensure their content aligns with your interests and values. Follow these individuals on their respective social media platforms to diversify and enrich your feed.
2. Repeat the Process: Apply this method to various topics or platforms that captivate you. By doing so, you'll access insights from the top 10% of leaders in your fields of interest, moving beyond the limitations of your existing network.

This strategy allows you to proactively shape your digital environment, ensuring exposure to high-quality content and thought leadership across multiple domains. This Thanksgiving, take some time out to redefine your social media feed.

In today’s hyperconnected world, balancing personal and professional life extends to our social media use. Our digital spaces should reflect this separation as we maintain distinct boundaries in real life. For personal platforms like Instagram and Facebook, focus on curating content that uplifts your spirit—think food, fitness, travel, mindfulness, and lifestyle inspirations. These topics can enhance your well-being and create a space for joy and connection. On professional platforms like LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), or other career-focused networks, prioritize leadership insights, AI advancements, tech updates, and news from top voices in your industry. This ensures you’re always equipped with the knowledge to excel in your career.

By crafting these two distinct spheres, you create a dynamic digital environment that serves your personal happiness and professional ambitions. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through feeds filled with negativity, anxiety-inducing posts, or hollow comparisons, imagine scrolling through content that engages, motivates, and inspires you. Let your curated feeds become your daily source of self-awareness, positivity, and growth. In a world where loneliness and unfulfillment can often linger, choosing what informs and influences you isn’t just important—it’s essential. Make your digital world a reflection of the life you want to live, and watch how it transforms your mindset and goals. #socialentrepreneurship ##creativity #socialmedia