Simple Instagram hack: the real game changer

Social Media is the pure evil of this world, they say. I say, it depends on how you use it. Let me show you how a small switch can be a game-changer here.

Let’s talk about Instagram, for example.

According to studies from IDC Research, 80% of us check our phones with 15 minutes of waking up. I bet that most of us launch Instagram and scroll the feed unconsciously. Bad news, it’s probably a habit already. Very bad habit.

What does it mean from the other point of view?

It means that every single morning we are watching this twisted, false perfect reality, full of perfect people, places and things. The reality, where everything is beautiful and amazing. The world where everything could be repaired with Adobe software.

It also means that we subconsciously feed our minds with insecurities and doubts. Every single morning we poison our mind. This could be a path to depression. I’m not overreacting, here are some studies to read.

No need to further discuss, you probably were aware of it. Let’s move to the solution.

It’s all about the people you follow.

Yeah, it’s that simple. You will also use the habit you probably have formed already. The only action you need to do is to…

Unfollow the influencers, follow the creators!

Unfollow every single influencer or model, because you don’t need to watch them. Their only goal is to sell their content. Think about this content for a while. Most of it is only about them, as a person. It’s about their perfect bodies, great businesses, amazing life, and unique relationships. Is it impressive? Yes! Is it inspiring? It depends, not for me. Is it valuable? I don’t think so.

I mean, #kudos for the influencers. They worked hard for their lifestyle and I respect that. I also don’t shame them for doing that, it’s just their job, very difficult job.

Although, there are better role models for our minds.

Follow the creators: artists, designers, scientists, photographers, storytellers. People who create and share what they do, not who they are. These people will inspire you and show you a better side of social media — this, where we share ideas and creations all over the World. Let your mind sink inspiration, watch the real beauty of humanity and stimulate your creativity from the beginning of the day. It’s a real life changer, trust me. It weakens your #FOMO, boosts your focus and creativity and helps you stick to your goals. I did this change a few months ago and this is one of greatest mind hacks I did this year.

Try it, it’s quick and easy. You have nothing to lose and… (some other rational arguments).

There’s only one catch: once you decide, you have to fully commit. I think it’s fair, isn’t it?

Where to begin?

Let me recommend you some profiles for an easier start. These are my personal favorites:

• @humansofny — this is the profile that describes human stories. Every post is a photo of a random New Yorker and his / her story. These stories are very personal. Sometimes are very joyful or inspiring, sometimes contemplating, depressive or very dark. Every story is worth read and think about.
• @beautifuldestinations — this profile shows you the real beauty of Earth. Every post is like a small journey to another amazing place on our planet.
• @iss — official profile of The International Space Station. Seeing our planet from their perspective is humbling, it reminds me that we’re a part of something bigger. Pure source of inspiration for me.
• @noeltheartist — freelance designer. I like his minimalistic posts. Powerful messages brought by simple images.
• @samspratt — an illustrator from NYC, commercial art. Best of the best in that industry.
• @liakimura — Japanese & Polish painter, based in Warsaw. I’m hypnotized by her art.
• @thepacman82 — best example of consistency and simplicity in content creation (fashion).
• @andrewknapp — Instagram without cute dogs isn’t Instagram at all. Andrew Knapp is a photographer who creates the most beautiful portraits of the dog, his dog. Every post puts a smile on the face.

These are my picks, of course. What works for you could be totally different. My advice here is: explore and enjoy it! You’ll definitely find many inspiring profiles. When you find some — please share them with others here, in the comments section :)

Conclusion

It’s a small hack that works for not only for me, but for many people. It will not give you some magical motivation / inspiration state (because it doesn’t exist), but it will “tune up” your mindset for a better productivity and well being. Just try it, you will not regret.

Thank you for reading this post. If you find this type of content interesting and would like me to share more hacks with you — let me know in the comment section. Any feedback appreciated!