On the latest episode of The Thrive Global Podcast with iHeartRadio, Thrive Global founder and CEO Arianna Huffington sat down with motivational writer, international speaker and author Gabby Bernstein to talk about everything from spirituality, meditation and self doubt to her phone habits, social media and finding happiness.
Social media can be a breeding ground for gossip, judgment, trolls and mean comments. But Bernstein has an effective technique to counter this. Part of it includes believing in the value of what she shares on her social accounts. “I feel good about the content I put out and I always make sure that whatever content I share makes me feel good,” Bernstein told Huffington. “I trust that what I put out will be received well.”
Of course, not everyone is so wise—or kind—about how they use social media, and there are inevitably people who stir up trouble in the comments section. But when those people post something harsh or uncalled for, Bernstein follows a simple policy: “forgive and delete.”
“I do not reply to negative comments.” she said. “I just can’t and what’s the point? So I forgive them and I just delete the comments.” They inevitably pop up again, and some of the commenters ask why she deleted their comment. But, per her mantra, she simply deletes it again.
Bernstein also offered advice for people who compare themselves to others on social media, which takes a slightly different approach from her forgive and delete policy. She says that rather than unfollowing people you compare yourself to, try to look within and figure out why you’re comparing yourself in the first place. She told Huffington that this discomfort can be a source of growth, and quoted Course of Miracles teacher Ken Watnick, “Be grateful for the things that bring you the most discomfort because they’re revealing to you what you still need to heal.”
To hear the full conversation, click here.
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