Branding: A Day in the Life
A Day in My Life: Navigating Digital Media
Morning Routine: The Digital Check-In
As soon as I wake up, my phone is within reach. My first instinct is to check Gmail for emails—whether it's school updates, promotions from my favorite stores, or personal messages. Then, I quickly scroll through Facebook, catching up with friends, seeing updates from family, and occasionally watching a few viral videos that brighten my morning.
Like clockwork, TikTok becomes my next stop. The endless scroll of quick, engaging videos is addictive. One moment, I’m watching a funny skit; the next, I’m learning a new life hack or discovering an interesting recipe. It’s entertaining, but I recognize the pull it has—TikTok can quickly turn minutes into hours if I’m not mindful.
Midday Productivity: Balancing Screen Time
During the day, my phone is both a tool for efficiency and a source of inspiration. I use Gmail to stay organized and respond to messages, but I also find myself jumping to Pinterest, looking for creative ideas. Whether it’s DIY projects or simple ways to spend time away from screens, Pinterest helps me plan hands-on activities.
One of my favorite apps is Tasty, where I browse recipes and think about new meals to try with my kids. Cooking together is a way for us to step away from digital media and enjoy making something in real life. To make sure I have everything I need, I use Amazon—not for impulse shopping, but for price comparisons on ingredients or kitchen tools. Instead of buying immediately, I check where I can find the best deals, helping me be mindful about purchases while still making cooking more accessible.
Evening Wind-Down: Digital Media & Marketing
As the day slows down, my digital habits shift toward relaxation. I browse Amazon occasionally, but mostly for practical reasons—double-checking ingredient prices or making sure I have the right tools for our next cooking adventure.
Music is another big part of my evening routine. I use Amazon Music to unwind, playing playlists that match my mood. Whether I’m cooking, relaxing, or trying to focus, the right soundtrack helps set the tone.
Reflection: The Push & Pull of Digital Media
While digital media connects me to entertainment, shopping, and social life, I try to maintain a healthy balance. It’s easy to fall into mindless scrolling, especially with apps like TikTok or Facebook, but I actively seek ways to engage with content that inspires creativity—like Pinterest and Tasty.
Marketing today feels almost invisible yet incredibly powerful. Ads are everywhere, subtly guiding my purchases and interests without me realizing it. Brands use digital media to reach users seamlessly, blending promotions into content that feels natural. From influencer recommendations to algorithm-driven ads, digital marketing has transformed how businesses interact with consumers.
Ultimately, digital media is an unavoidable part of my day, shaping how I communicate, shop, and discover new things. But I make sure to find moments where I step away—to cook, create, or explore the world beyond the screen.
By Angela M
RefeBig Think. (2021). How Apple and Nike have branded your brain | Your Brain on Money | Big Think. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eIDBV4Mpek
Barker, M. S., South-Western Cengage Learning, & Al, E. (2013). Social media marketing : a strategic approach. South-Western Cengage Learning.
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