Oxford Business College (OBC) hosted a captivating lecture on the 8th of October 2024, delivered by Tajender Luthra, a renowned author and expert in positive psychology. The event, titled “How Social Media is Killing Our Happiness,” drew a large audience of students and staff eager to explore the links between modern technology use and declining mental wellbeing.
During his thought-provoking presentation, Mr Luthra focused on the pervasive role social media and smartphones play in everyday life, examining their detrimental effects on happiness and mental health. Highlighting the issue of social media addiction, he explained how these platforms consume time and energy, fragment attention, and lead to a growing sense of disconnection from real-life experiences.
Luthra, who holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Pennsylvania, specialises in teaching happiness, mental resilience, and how to find meaning in life. He shared a variety of strategies for overcoming the negative impacts of social media, including practising self-care, engaging in offline activities, and pursuing hobbies such as music and sports. These activities, he argued, could help individuals regain control of their time and attention, thereby enhancing their overall wellbeing.
The talk sparked lively discussions among attendees, with many students and staff taking the opportunity to ask questions and share their experiences. Luthra’s message resonated strongly with the audience, offering practical advice on how to achieve a healthier balance between online and offline life.
Reflecting on the lecture, Mr Luthra said: “It was a rewarding experience to engage with the students at Oxford Business College. They were curious and motivated to understand how to build a happier and more meaningful life. Many raised thoughtful questions about reducing social media use and reconnecting with real-life relationships and goals.”
He also praised the college for facilitating such an enriching discussion: “The faculty were very supportive in organising the event, and I look forward to returning in the future for further conversations on these important topics.”
Diana Munoz, Events & Engagement Manager at Oxford Business College, spoke highly of the event: “Mr Luthra delivered a captivating talk to both students and staff. He addressed the reasons people turn to social media and explained how it diminishes our ability to focus, distracts us from meaningful tasks, and pulls us away from deeper personal connections. His insights were shared by the audience and left a lasting impression.”
Sarah Barry, Dean of Oxford at Oxford Business College, also commented on the lecture’s impact: “Mr Luthra’s talk was eye-opening. He clearly demonstrated how social media overuse subtly erodes our attention and distracts us from the more meaningful aspects of life. His observations on the ways constant digital engagement affects mental clarity and personal relationships were particularly thought-provoking.”
The lecture was part of Oxford Business College’s ongoing series aimed at fostering intellectual curiosity and promoting discussions on the impact of technology on mental health. Participants left the event with practical tips on how to reclaim their time and attention, encouraging a more balanced and fulfilling life in the digital age.
