Studies show that people who aren’t on social media are happier than those on it. Part of this is attributed to jealousy caused by seeing our friends’ vacations, parties, new jobs and all their exciting events. One of the Ten Commandments is not to covet. That means not being jealous of other people’s things.

How do we harness the power of social media while avoiding the pitfalls along the way? Here are some tips to keep in mind while using social media:

  • Remember that social media presents a very select, manufactured version of someone’s life. In reality, everyone has challenges and struggles. If we knew the entirety of someone else’s circumstances, it’s likely we would be more than content with our own lot.                                                                                                                               
  • One way to avoid jealousy is to know and trust that God takes personal care of each one of us and gives us just what we need for our best good. If it would be truly better for us to have more, God would have given it to us.                                                                                                                           

It is human nature to want what you don’t have. We always want to acquire more. A person is both wise and wealthy, and happy when he masters the art of appreciating what he already has.                                                                          

Today, recognize all that you have is a personal gift to you from our Father, our King, Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Make a list of five blessings in your life and keep them in mind when daily challenges get you down.

– Rabbi Zelig Pliskin