TikTok: Managing Technology with Balance and Mindfulness

This post is adapted from www.anahomayoun.com and is based on the work Green Ivy Educational Consulting founder Ana Homayoun does speaking and consulting in schools today.

As a frequent speaker in schools, I’ve had the opportunity to discuss social media and technology use with countless students. One app that comes up again and again is TikTok, the short-form video app that has taken over the phones of millions of teens and tweens around the world.

The TikTok phenomenon has exploded in recent years. Just a few years ago, high school students would have looked at me blankly if I mentioned it. Now, it’s hard to find a teen who isn’t either scrolling through TikTok or creating their videos. 

There’s no doubt that TikTok has its appeal: it allows for creativity, fun, and a sense of community.

Short-form videos are entertaining and provide an outlet for teens to express themselves, be silly, or showcase their talents. The algorithm is designed to make it easy to go viral, and teens enjoy the instantaneous feedback they get from their followers.

However, with all the benefits of TikTok, it’s important to also consider the risks associated with its use. TikTok is owned by ByteDance, a Beijing-based company, and like all social media platforms, it’s heavily driven by algorithms that personalize content. Teens often tell me that they love the fact that TikTok’s algorithm helps them find videos that are tailored specifically to their interests, making the app feel more engaging than other platforms like Instagram or YouTube.

But this personalized feed, while fun, also raises concerns. Because TikTok’s content moderation system can struggle to filter out inappropriate material, the platform sometimes exposes users to harmful content, including explicit or troubling videos. While TikTok has taken steps to improve safety, especially for younger users, it is not immune to issues like inappropriate content or privacy concerns.

Furthermore, the app’s data practices, such as the collection and sharing of personal information, are an ongoing source of controversy. Users should be mindful of what data is being collected and how it’s being shared with third parties.

While I don’t want to instill fear, it’s essential to recognize the importance of balance and mindfulness when using TikTok—and other social media platforms. Here are some updated tips for managing technology use more mindfully, ensuring that social media serves us rather than controls us:

1. Set Boundaries Around Screen Time

Technology is meant to enhance our lives, but overuse can lead to burnout, anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns. One of the most important steps you can take is setting clear boundaries around screen time. Try using built-in features on your phone or apps to limit how much time you spend on TikTok or other social media platforms. You could designate “phone-free” zones, like at the dinner table or before bed, to ensure that you are present in the moment and getting adequate rest.

2. Be Intentional About What Is Consumed

Mindlessly scrolling through TikTok can be a recipe for distraction, and we often end up consuming content that doesn’t add value to our lives. Instead of mindlessly scrolling, make a conscious decision about the type of content you want to see. Follow accounts that inspire you, teach you something new, or make you laugh. Avoid accounts or content that perpetuate negativity, unrealistic beauty standards, or any other material that may harm your mental health.

3. Mind Mental Health

TikTok can be an emotional roller coaster, from the highs of viral videos to the lows of comparing ourselves to others. It’s important to monitor how TikTok affects your mood. If you notice feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, or anxiety creeping in, it might be time to take a break. Social media can create a distorted sense of reality, and it’s easy to forget that what people post online is often highly curated. Practice mindfulness by taking regular “social media detoxes,” where you step away from all platforms for a set amount of time.

4. Practice Digital Literacy

As with all technology, it’s essential to be a critical consumer. Before downloading any app or engaging with any new feature, take the time to research it. What are the privacy policies? How is user data collected and stored? TikTok, like many apps, collects a lot of data, and it’s important to be informed about what you’re sharing. Encourage teens and young adults to read app terms of service and seek out information about any recent scandals, security breaches, or updates regarding how platforms are handling data. Being proactive about digital literacy can help avoid unnecessary privacy risks.

5. Create Content Mindfully

TikTok is a platform for creativity, but creating content that aligns with your values and goals is crucial. Before posting, ask yourself: “What message am I sending to my audience? Is this authentic to who I am?” TikTok can be a powerful tool for self-expression, but it’s important to ensure that the content you’re sharing aligns with your values and mental well-being. Don’t fall into the trap of creating content just for likes or views; instead, focus on content that brings you joy or has a positive impact on others.

Feel free to share how you and your family find balance with technology!

Links of Interest:

The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health, Psychology Today

TikTok will restrict some beauty filters for people under 18, Tech Crunch

TikTok just had the most important two hours of its life, CNN Business