What Does Your Algorithm Say About You?

In a world dominated by technology, algorithms are omnipresent, yet often invisible forces shaping our daily experiences. From the music we stream to the news we consume, these intricate formulas curate our digital lives. But have you ever stopped to ask: What does your algorithm say about you?

This question struck me as I scrolled through my single social media account—a channel I maintain for entertainment and distraction. Unlike many, I have stepped away from most social media platforms, a personal decision rooted in my desire to focus on self-improvement and my relationship with God. Marketing experts might call this a poor choice for someone trying to build an audience as a writer, but for me, the trade-off has been worth it.

A Shift in Content and Perspective

Considering the content of my algorithm now delivers—videos about Jesus Christ and 1980s music—I noticed something striking. Gone were the provocative and risque videos that once cluttered my feed, replaced by material that aligns with my current values and interests. This was not a coincidence, but rather the result of my changing behavior. Algorithms are mirrors after all: they reflect what we engage with, learn from our habits, and adapt accordingly.

This realization was comforting. It was not just about the content which was risque or harmful to mental wellness. It was about what its replacement signified. My algorithm had evolved because I had evolved. It digitally showcased my personal growth.

The Power of Algorithms to Shape (and Reflect) Us

Algorithms are not good or bad—they are tools. What makes them powerful is their ability to amplify certain behaviors, interests, and even ideologies. Should you engage with content that promotes negativity or shallow gratification, your feed will overflow with it. Conversely, if you interact with material that inspires growth, learning, or connection, the algorithm will follow suit.

This dynamic underscores a truth many overlook: our algorithms do not just shape us—they reveal who we are. They expose our priorities, our habits, and even our weaknesses. The phenomenon of “compare and despair,” where individuals feel inadequate by comparing their lives to the curated realities on social media, is a stark reminder of this influence. In such cases, the algorithm becomes a magnifying glass for insecurities.

The Role of Personal Accountability

Recognizing this power, we must ask ourselves: Are we allowing algorithms to control us, or are we using them to our advantage? It’s easy to blame “the system” for the content we see. However, we are the ones feeding the algorithm through our clicks, likes, and shares. My feed shifted from provocative to purposeful, not because the algorithm was kind. It changed because I made deliberate choices to engage with content that aligned with my values.

Using Algorithms for Good

So how can we leverage this understanding? Here are a few steps:

1. Audit Your Engagement: Take stock of the content you interact with. Does it align with your values? Does it inspire or drain you? The answers will guide your next steps.
2. Curate Your Feed: Actively seek and engage with content that supports your personal growth. Follow creators who share meaningful insights, educational material, or uplifting messages.
3. Limit Negative Influences: Identify the content that trigger stress, envy, or negativity, and minimize your interaction with them. Over time, your algorithm will adjust.
4. Reflect on Your Digital Identity: Ask yourself what your algorithm says about you and whether that aligns with who you want to be.

A Digital Reflection of Personal Growth

The concept of algorithms might seem cold and impersonal, but in reality, they offer a unique opportunity for self-reflection. By focusing on the content they deliver, we can learn about ourselves in unexpected ways. For me, this journey has been about more than just cleaning up my social media feed—it has been about aligning my digital life with my personal values.

As we move through an era where algorithms influence everything from our shopping habits to our worldview, the question becomes increasingly urgent: What does your algorithm say about you? The answer might surprise you—or inspire you to change.

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Source: www.lawofficer.com