Editor’s Perspective: On the ups and downs of social media

“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change” – Wayne W. Dyer

I’ll admit it, I have somewhat of a love hate relationship with social media. Numerous attempts over the years to sever ties have failed, often on the basis of ‘that distant London cousin I need to keep in contact with’ or, my favourite, ‘but I need it for work’. And, after a trial separation has resulted in eventual reconciliation, the honeymoon period is always so much sweeter. After all, absence really does make the heart grow fonder.
But I have to concede that, despite its social shortcomings, plenty of good too comes from the social media platform. Long lost relatives have been reunited, it’s been used to create awareness of social movements and it has given a voice to society’s voiceless.
It’s also created overnight sensations. Jordan Watson posted a funny video one night before heading off to bed. He woke up to 250,000 views. Now, those funny videos are a full-time job. We spoke to Jordon about ‘How to Dad’ ahead of his trip to Christchurch and it got me thinking, life really is all about what you make of it.
Some of the world’s greatest philosophers have determined that the power of the mind is such that your perception is your reality. Your mind really does have the ability to change your world. So the next time you’re feeling negative, why not try reframing the way you’re looking at things.
After all, the glass may be half full; it may be half empty, but when you recognise the glass is refillable, then it matters very little either way.