16. Ask Alexandria: I’m Addicted to Social Media (Help!) & Can I KonMari My Plants?

Alexandria Lawrence sitting near window, looking up at kentia palm frond

Ask Alexandria

special monthly q&a

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Episode Highlights

This month’s questions bring up some important social issues of our times. Social media addiction is real. And it’s time to take back control. This Ask Alexandria episode discusses some of the key social dilemmas of our times, including our relationship with fast fashion. And, yes, you can KonMari your plants. But have you ever heard of a plant throne?

Social Media Addiction

As a society, we are addicted to email. We are addicted to social media. And it’s not by accident. Social media platforms are specifically designed to keep us engaged, to keep us scrolling. They’re designed to keep us on site for as long as possible. They cleverly manipulate us and, over time, social media changes how we think and behave. It affects our perception of truth and how we interact with the world.

What’s the solution?
Be aware that there’s a problem
A great place to start is to watch the recent Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma. It’s a fascinating look at human psychology. It’s the ultimate cautionary tale for our times. Like climate change, we can all be part of the solution. But we first need to acknowledge that there’s a real problem.

Be intentional with your time
Turn off all of your notifications
That’s right. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter… whatever platform you use, turn off your notifications.
Engage on your own terms
Decide how much time you want to spend on social media & hold yourself accountable. By being intentional, you can start to redefine your relationship with social media.

Take action
Start a conversation about social media addiction
Talk to your friends and family about social media addiction. Be open, honest and understanding. Create a judgment-free zone.
KonMari your social feeds
Consider who you follow on your social platforms. Do the posts that arrive in your feed add value to your life? Do they make you feel good about yourself? If they don’t, there’s a simple solution. Unfollow.
Take a break from social media.
Here’s my challenge to you: see what one week without social media feels like…
For more actionable tips, check out The Social Dilemma’s take action page.

There are only two industries that call their customers ‘users’: illegal drugs and software.

Edward Tufte

Indoor Plant Joy

If you’re keen to bring more plant joy into your home… yes, you can KonMari your plants!

Begin with your vision
How do you imagine your ideal indoor plant world?
How would you describe your personal plant aesthetic?
How do you want your space to function & how do plants fit into that equation?

Consider this...

Whether you want to create a tropical indoor paradise—full of exotic plants—or you just fancy some fresh green touches to your home, here are a few things to consider…
What kind of plant parent are you?
Do you have pets or small children in your home?
What levels of sunlight do you get in your space?
For more ideas plus some fun interior design plant tips, listen to the full episode…

Style & Sustainability

The problem with fast fashion
Throwaway fashion
Not well made & doesn’t last.
Poor quality fabrics/materials
Produced at high speed & low cost.
Lack of living wage
Unethical factory working conditions.
Environmental impact
High carbon footprint.

High-end luxury fashion
Better quality fabrics
Clothes and accessories are well-made & fit better
BUT you pay a premium for the prestige of that luxury brand name
You pay a premium for the marketing & advertising that goes with that name

Mid-range designer & specialty brands
The sweet spot when it comes to value
Good quality, well-designed, well-made clothing
You avoid the markup of high-end luxury brand names
Heightened awareness around sustainability
But do your research!

Always go for quality instead of quantity. Make better choices and buy less.

If you haven’t seen The Social Dilemma yet, leave this page and watch it now.

This is a lovely look at what the future of social media could be… 🌹

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About ALSO in PINK

Welcome to the ALSO in PINK podcast with host Alexandria Lawrence, a certified KonMari consultant, personal stylist and specialist in biophilic interior design.

ALSO in PINK offers candid conversations with industry leaders and influencers, clients and friends, about what it means to live well.

The podcast is currently paused... but we'll be back! In the meantime, you have nearly 50 episodes to enjoy. Happy listening...

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Alexandria Lawrence is passionate about helping you dare to dream big and intentionally live your best life every day.

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