I feel like social media has made me less empathetic and patient with people in real life. How can I rebuild that compassion?

The fast-paced, highlight-reel nature of social media can sometimes make us less patient, more distracted, and quicker to judge or compare, which can reduce our capacity for empathy and patience. To cultivate empathy, start by disconnecting from social media. You can set boundaries by limiting your time online, muting or unfollowing accounts that drain your energy, taking intentional breaks, or even deleting the app temporarily if needed.

In addition, engage in real-life experiences and reconnect with people and activities that bring you joy and make you feel grounded. Remember, social media isn’t real life. While it can be a powerful tool to connect with others, it can also distance you from the things that truly matter. Try spending more time being present with yourself and others, and fill your free time with things that nourish and recharge you. Over time, you’ll likely find that your empathy and patience return naturally as you step away from the digital world and focus on what truly fulfills you.

Kathryn Lee