Despite the harsh realities of war, the Israeli spirit remains strong. A sense of optimism and determination fills the air as nations innovate, rebuild, hold space and support each other.
People from all walks of life come together to demonstrate their faith and demonstrate Israel’s common commitment to unified progress. But for those of us online, the social media landscape is not conducive to helping or understanding even basic information about what’s going on in Israel right now.
Healthy debate is always encouraged, but in today’s online environment, the proliferation of misinformation, online trolls, and media bias make it almost impossible to be on the right side of an argument.
Taking a mental health break from screens can make the difference between finding clarity and falling prey to a harmful cycle of online negativity and polarization.
In times of conflict, there are two important factors to focus on.
- Trustworthiness: Maintain integrity and transparency in your actions and foster trust in times of tension.
- Self-care: Staying resilient and healthy amid emotional and physical strain
With that in mind, this article explores authenticity in times of conflict and why becoming an online warrior may not be the best idea.
burden of explanation
It’s hard to explain yourself online. Most people do it without realizing it. We’ve all been there: while scrolling through our feed or watching a YouTube video, we suddenly feel like voicing our opinion in the comments section.
Before you know it, your heart rate will increase and you’ll be drawn into a vicious argument with someone hiding behind a fake profile picture. In any other profession, a person must be held accountable for their actions, but with the power of online anonymity and the comfort of hiding behind a computer screen, no one can face up to it. Some people make it their life’s mission to spread falsehoods and anti-Israel misinformation. the consequences of their actions.
This is a big burden for those who want to use their online space permanently. The burden is compounded when we realize the enormous amount of propaganda and misinformation being spread online. Too often, people with no expertise or legitimate opinions rise to the top and ignorantly shape online discussions. In some cases, this leads to widespread radicalization and the formation of opinions based on lies.
Given the current state of the world, it’s no wonder that a growing number of “internet warriors” are leveraging online platforms to drive change. But it gets tiring after a while.
Most people are aware that organized online trolls and fake advocacy experts often engage in heated debates or offer opinions without considering the real-world consequences of their actions. They do not know that they are in charge when it comes to spreading divisive rhetoric.
To get to the bottom of the online credibility debate, we first need to look at the current online landscape, including new media outlets like Facebook, X, and YouTube. The rise of social media should have signaled a more fair and open space for voices to be heard and debated. Instead, we have an unregulated arena where anything is allowed and lies can be spread at the push of a button.
Corporate social media is not responsible. Backed by unchecked power, those who passionately oppose Israel, call for the annihilation of the state of Israel, and promote lies and the erasure of Jewish identity influence public opinion without transparency or oversight. With significant funding from countries such as Qatar and widespread support from pro-Islamists, groups like Hamas can use online platforms to shape their narrative and rally support for their actions.
Excessive explanation does not always work
People will always disagree. It is what makes us fundamentally human. But at what point do we draw the line and agree to disagree?
Trying to convince someone to think the same way we do is not always healthy. Sometimes it’s more important to respect different points of view and find common ground despite differences.
The rise of online echo chambers is leading to profound changes in the way we interact with information, often leading to polarization and the reinforcement of existing beliefs. People feel comfortable swimming in familiar waters, and it’s no different than online. Those who are comforted by the status quo are content to immerse themselves in the shallows and let their tunnel-vision mentality take hold, unconfounded by the facts.
When we can’t have our opinions challenged, we become fed up and less willing to learn and grow. At this point, most people get caught up in useless and unproductive online discussions that drain their energy. We are then left with a headache and a palpable sense of frustration, realizing that we have perpetuated division instead of understanding, and exhausted ourselves in the process.
please accept your true self
The reality is that in our interconnected world, there will always be some form of conflict. Recognizing the realities of modern society, historical struggles, and the constant evolution of humanity, we understand that conflict is an inevitable aspect of our existence.
Only then can you consider options for progress. Not many people know how to focus on their own well-being during a conflict. Our first instinct is to panic and react impulsively, and this can cause long-term devastating effects on our mental health.
That being said, it’s also important to stay true to yourself. Media gaslighting is rampant and people are questioning their own sense of reality. That’s why it’s important to find the right balance and express your emotions honestly. We still want to be seen and heard, especially in the midst of chaos and manipulation.
Focus on the community, not online discussions
Finding like-minded communities online can be a breath of fresh air. People with similar feelings are more likely to become friends and foster lasting relationships. As humans, we have an innate need for connection, and online communities are a great way to achieve this.
Online collective action can amplify voices, bring about meaningful change, and affirm the power of solidarity and shared values in shaping a better world. You can do this by helping a friend organize a community event, volunteering at a local community center, or even helping a friend with errands.
The Internet is a huge resource with endless possibilities. We should use online spaces to spark our creativity and explore the world through interconnected means. Never have we been more empowered to connect, learn, and create.
The Internet provides endless opportunities for creativity and exploration. By leveraging online platforms in ways that expand your horizons, you’ll be able to connect on a limitless level.
Misplaced guilt: Not everyone needs to be an influencer
It’s normal to feel like you don’t have an impact on the big picture. Not everyone invests the same amount of time and effort into online advocacy. Furthermore, most people are not skilled at discussing or explaining the underlying complex nuances in a bite-sized format. Don’t compare yourself to others you want to imitate or agree with. You’ll just end up putting in less effort and missing out on your valuable contributions.
Instead, take note of key points and use them to carve your own path. Doing so allows you to engage with the causes that are most important to you and develop your own identity. Each person contributes to society in their own way. It is important that individuals feel safe and valued, regardless of how others perceive or value their contributions.
It’s important to remember that the time you spend online is only a small part of your life. Living and surviving the next digital revolution will require a huge effort to protect our mental health. Opportunities abound in the information age, but the real challenge is prioritizing your mental health to maintain balance and resilience.
Remember that your unique skills and talents can be of great use in other areas of life. Reaching out to a loved one and being there for support is a great way to make a difference in your family and community. If you really want to make a difference, focus on the impact you have in your immediate environment and use your strengths to bring positivity and support to those around you.
Doing so creates a sense of normalcy in a world rife with uncertainty.
Understanding the realities of the modern world can be difficult. However, by maintaining an authentic approach to your personal and online life, you can overcome these challenges with honesty and clarity.
Be strong in your beliefs and be honest about areas where you need support or guidance.
Challenge yourself to understand the opposing views and the experiences that led to them. And, sure, know that anti-Semitism is alive and well, although it may be difficult to believe with modern eyes. It cannot be denied or explained. All you can do is stand tall and walk your own path instead of trying to explain, justify, or beg for understanding.
It’s not easy. Nothing of value. By using history as a beacon of progress, we draw inspiration from the struggles of the past and look to our authenticity as indigenous peoples in a modern nation that defies hatred and triumphs as always. can do.
The author is a strategic advisor and technology ecosystem insight writer.
