A Day in the Life

 We live in a world where reaching for your phone first thing in the morning has become second nature, and I’m no exception. Whether  I’m laughing at funny videos, checking in with family, or staying aware of what’s happening around me. Each platform I use has its own purpose, and together they shape how I connect with others and interact with the world.

The first thing I do in the morning is grab my phone on the way to the bathroom. The four main apps I use throughout the day are Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and the Citizen app.

I primarily use Facebook to stay connected with my family, church family, and close friends. It feels like a more personal and family-oriented platform. I usually post about vacations, family gatherings, or special events. I keep my page very neutral and positive, focusing on things that bring joy or celebrate loved ones.

Instagram is the app I use most often and usually the first one I check in the morning. I enjoy seeing who has liked or shared my posts and checking for new reels from friends. My Instagram is centered around fun, laughter, and encouragement. I post funny content, Christian messages, and uplifting content that makes others smile or feel inspired.

Out of all the apps, TikTok is my favorite. I can spend hours watching videos and laughing, and I enjoy sharing them with friends. I also repost a lot of content on TikTok. Another reason I love this app is the TikTok Shop. I buy wigs, clothing, gifts, and other items, and I’ve found the quality to be very good. For me, TikTok combines both entertainment and convenience, since I can laugh, connect, and shop all in one place.

I primarily use the Citizen app for safety purposes. If I’m in a specific area, I set notifications to alert me about incidents happening nearby. I also use it when I see or hear about something while driving, so I can check if it has been reported. It gives me a sense of awareness and security when I’m out.

Overall, I have very positive reactions when using digital media. I make it a point not to post or comment on anything negative, so for me, the experience is uplifting. Whether I am laughing at a TikTok video, sharing encouragement on Instagram, or staying connected with family on Facebook, these apps all bring some joy or value to my day.

One thing I have noticed about marketing through digital media is how personalized and targeted it has become. Almost everything I search for, look at, or talk about appears in ads on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. For example, because I use the TikTok Shop to purchase wigs and clothing, I often see ads for hair products, beauty supplies, or new clothing lines that match my interests.

Another trend I’ve noticed is the increasing interactivity and creativity in marketing. Brands are no longer just posting ads; they are making content that feels entertaining, relatable, and easy to share. For example, TikTok allows small businesses to go viral by posting creative videos that connect with people. On Instagram, companies use reels and stories to make their products part of a lifestyle rather than just something to buy.

Digital media marketing today is less about traditional sales pitches and more about building a relationship with the audience. By blending entertainment, authenticity, and convenience, brands make themselves part of people’s daily routines, just like how TikTok Shop has become part of mine.

From Facebook to Instagram, TikTok, and even the Citizen app, digital media shapes how I connect, laugh, shop, and stay safe each day. Because I focus on positive use, these platforms bring joy, encouragement, and security into my routine. At the same time, digital media has transformed marketing into a more personal, engaging, and interactive experience. It’s no longer just about reaching people; it’s about connecting with them in meaningful ways.