Report Bosnia

Arrival Day

On the 15th of January we (Zora, Anissa, Paula, Aldin and Ada) travelled together to Samobor in Croatia. Our destiny was the Hostel “Samobor”, where we participated in the youth exchange hosted and co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union. We stayed there for nine days, until the 24th of January, together with about 30 other participants. In total we had six groups from different counties, which where Bosnia, Croatia, Romania, Albania, Spain and Jordan. Our topic for these Days was “EQ for modern life” and we learned a lot about emotional intelligence, especially in connection to social media. We also learned a lot about ourselves in the workshop, as for example emotional awareness. On the arrival day we didn’t have activities, but we got to know a few of the other participants and the Hostel.

Day 1

The 16th of January, which was our first activity day, started with breakfast at 8:00 a.m., as every morning. At 10:00 a.m. the first workshop started, hosted by the Albanian group. They prepared some name games, in order to get to know each other better. At 11:45 a.m. the second session started, which was hosted by the Bosnian group, us. We prepared ice breaker games with the intention to know more about each other and to have first conversations together. We tried to make a basis for the group to connect with each other.

After our first big break, we started with the third session at 15:30 p.m., where Andreja, our Project manager, introduced us to the topic of our Project, but also to the people who worked in the Hostel and who were our contact people. Together with everyone we set rules for our time as a group, for example “Don’t be late to workshops”.

In our last session at 17:15 p.m. we talked about our workshops, which we would each host as a national group in the following days. We not only talked about how to prepare and lead these workshops, but also got together in our groups, to discuss the last details for the program. Afterwards, at 6:30 p.m. we had dinner, as every evening, before we ended the first day together as a group.

Day 2

The 17th of January was our third day in Samobor and the second day of the official Seminar. This day gave the Bosnian team the opportunity to get to know the other participants even better and was overall very varied and informative. As usual the day started of between 8 and 9:30 a.m. for the participants. As the Bosnian team didn’t want to miss the opportunity to have breakfast, we got ready early enough to drink our needed coffee and to then go to the room where the workshops where held. On this day team Jordan made the first two workshops which should promote team building among the participants. The workshops were very interactive and not too theoretical which really helped to start the day motivated. Our task was to solve various problems in different teams, which required a lot of teamwork. One group for example had to fold a blanket while they were standing oects, which they were not supposed to touch, only by words. As one could imagine, such tasks were quite difficult for people who had onlyjust met, but everyone did their best and supported each other. After having an relaxing coffee break, the groups had to solve their problem within a certain time. Some succeeded while others dints do as well, but the nicest part was seeing how everyone cheered each other and celebrated each others successes. Overall the team building worked well and the workshop by team Jordan was well organized and a success. After those two sessions we got to eat Lunch and then decided to spend our break in a cafe and also to walk around a little bit in Samobor. The break was very refreshing, and after that, we had energy for the other workshops. The next sessions was organized by the spanish team, its was a little bit less active and more informative, but still interesting as we had the opportunity to create posters. In this workshop we talked about the history of the internet and social media. We were divided into different groups where we occupied different social media platforms an their history, in the end we presented them to the others. The last workshop, which was organized b our team, was about the changes that social media has brought over the time. Since we wanted to make the workshop informative but not too exhausting, we started with an energizer to wake everyone up. We continued with some games and interactive requests where the participants had a relation to their own life. The workshop also contained posters/mindmaps different teams had to create and then to present. In general it was a succeeded workshop and day and most of us were happy. We finished the sessions wit some reflection reading notes from the secret jar. Then we had dinner and spend a nice evening altogether.

Day 3

The third day of our programme started with an enriching and thought-provoking workshop led by our Romanian team, entitled ‘My Life Online’. This session was highly interactive and focused on the impact that social networks have on our daily lives. We dove deep into the various social media platforms that dominate our screens—Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, and Twitter—analysing not only how they work but also the profound effects they have on our behavior, well-being, and perceptions of the world around us.

One of the central questions during this discussion was: which social networks can be considered beneficial and helpful, and which ones might have a more harmful impact on individuals? This led to an insightful debate, where we looked at the advantages of certain platforms, such as staying connected with friends and family, access to news, and creative expression, versus the downsides, including negative comparisons, online bullying, and misinformation.

A particularly intriguing part of the workshop was when we imagined what life would be like without social networks. It was eye-opening to realise just how much of our daily routine and interactions rely on these digital platforms. Tasks that once seemed simple, such as staying in touch with loved ones, finding information, or even passing time with entertainment, are now often mediated through our smartphones. We also recognised that while social networks have undeniable benefits, they can also pose several challenges, such as fostering feelings of inadequacy, addiction, and exposure to misinformation.

The session concluded with an excellent presentation from our Romanian facilitators, who provided a wealth of information backed by scientific studies and statistical insights on the effects of social media on our psychological well-being. This presentation helped us think more critically about our personal relationship with these platforms, offering us the tools to reflect on our social media use with a more conscious and balanced perspective.

After a short break, we continued with a second workshop that examined another fascinating topic: the emotional impact of social networks. In this session, we learned about the psychological mechanisms at play that cause social media to influence our emotions in both positive and negative ways. One key area of discussion was the psychological effects of receiving likes, comments, and building a following on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Many of us shared personal experiences of how social media can either boost or diminish our self-esteem, depending on how much value we place on external validation. This conversation also revealed that while social networks can foster feelings of connection and inspire us through motivational content, they can just as easily lead to negative emotions like envy or inadequacy.

In the afternoon, we were joined by the Spanish team, who introduced a unique challenge: to what extent are we dependent on our smartphones and the internet? For this task, we were asked to list three daily activities we carry out using our smartphones or the internet. We were surprised at how quickly the list grew, encompassing everything from staying updated on social media and messaging friends to streaming videos, listening to music, and even researching for academic purposes.

Next, we were asked to imagine what we would do if suddenly there was no internet or smartphones. This posed a significant challenge, as many of us had not realised just how ingrained these devices are in our daily routines. Some participants found that in the absence of digital tools, they might turn to offline hobbies like reading, exercising, or engaging in creative activities. Others suggested they would spend more time socialising in person, enjoying face-to-face interactions with friends and family, which are often overlooked in the digital age.

The day ended with a creative exercise. We were split into small groups and tasked with designing an alternative daily schedule for ourselves, imagining how our routines would look without the internet. The ideas that emerged from the group discussions were diverse and imaginative. From writing handwritten letters, playing traditional board games, and taking long walks, to researching in libraries or exchanging knowledge in person, we explored a wide range of possibilities for a life without constant digital connectivity.

This exercise was particularly thought-provoking, as it encouraged us to think about life beyond the screen and reflect on the balance between digital and offline activities. It highlighted that while life without the internet would indeed present challenges, it could also lead to many new opportunities for personal growth, creativity, and meaningful human interaction.

The third day of our programme proved to be an incredibly enriching experience, full of valuable insights into the role of social media in our lives. The workshops not only prompted us to reflect on our own use of these platforms but also gave us the tools to approach digital media more mindfully and responsibly. Overall, it was a day packed with engaging discussions, fresh perspectives, and important takeaways that will stay with us long after the programme ends.

Day 4

The entire day was organised and led by the Croatian team, who guided us through an engaging series of activities and discussions focused on two critical aspects of personal development: Self-Regulation and Self-Awareness. The sessions were both enlightening and deeply thought-provoking, offering us a chance to reflect on how these skills can positively impact our personal and professional lives.

The day began with an in-depth explanation of what self-regulation truly entails. To help us better understand its importance, we were invited to create an acrostic for the term “Self-Regulation.” This hands-on exercise allowed us to break down the concept and see how each element of self-regulation plays a role in maintaining emotional balance and achieving personal goals.

Self-regulation is the ability to control one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, especially in challenging or emotionally charged situations. It’s the skill of staying composed, resisting impulses, and making decisions that are in alignment with our long-term objectives, rather than acting impulsively or seeking immediate gratification. Mastering self-regulation is essential for achieving success, whether in academic pursuits, work, or personal relationships. It enables us to stay focused, navigate setbacks, and continue working toward our goals, even when obstacles arise.

In addition to self-regulation, we also explored the concept of self-awareness. This refers to the ability to reflect on one’s own thoughts, emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and habitual patterns of behavior. Self-awareness goes beyond just thinking about oneself; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of why we behave the way we do and how our actions affect both ourselves and those around us. This insight can empower us to make more informed choices, build stronger relationships, and foster emotional intelligence.

As we delved deeper into these two concepts, we realized that self-regulation and self-awareness are interconnected, with each one supporting the other. By being more aware of our emotions and behaviors, we can better regulate them, and by practicing self-regulation, we strengthen our ability to understand ourselves on a deeper level. The exercises and discussions throughout the day provided practical tools to develop both of these skills, which are crucial for personal growth and emotional well-being.

The Croatian team’s thoughtful guidance gave us a new understanding of how self-regulation and self-awareness are essential for navigating challenges, improving interpersonal relationships, and staying focused on our goals. By the end of the day, we had a clearer picture of how to use these skills to lead more intentional, focused, and fulfilling lives.

Day 5

*FREE DAY*

Day 6

On Day 6, we dove deeper into the nuances of emotions and motivation, and how they are shaped by our interactions with social media. We learned that emotions are incredibly individual and can vary greatly from person to person. Often, what seems like a simple emotional reaction may, in fact, be a complex mix of feelings that are difficult to fully understand, even when we think we know what someone else is going through. This insight helped us develop greater empathy, recognizing the importance of being open-minded and acknowledging that everyone experiences emotions differently.

During one of our discussions, we explored the relationship between social networks and social skills, which led to a deeper understanding of how both can coexist and influence each other. We realised that while social networks are undeniably a fundamental aspect of modern communication, the development of strong social skills in face-to-face interactions remains just as essential. This made us reflect on the importance of balancing both digital and in-person communication. Social media has made it easier to stay connected with others, but it can’t replace the richness of human interaction and the subtle cues we pick up in face-to-face conversations—such as body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions—that help us understand emotions more fully. Recognising this balance is key to nurturing meaningful relationships, both online and offline.

Another fascinating topic we discussed was the nature of motivation, especially as it relates to social media. We recognised how easily motivation can fluctuate in response to the content we consume online. One moment, we might feel inspired by a motivational post or an influencer’s achievements, only to find ourselves discouraged the next moment when comparing ourselves to others. This helped us realise that motivation from external sources, such as social media, can be inconsistent and short-lived. We understood that true, lasting motivation doesn’t come from the digital world—it comes from within ourselves. It’s about setting personal goals that align with our core values and continuously striving to reach them, regardless of what we see online.

This understanding also led to a discussion about how motivation can be cultivated over time, rather than relying on sudden bursts of inspiration. We learned that motivation is a skill that can be developed by taking small, consistent actions toward our goals, staying committed even when the initial excitement fades. By identifying our deeper “why”—the reason behind our goals—we can stay focused and driven, even when faced with obstacles. The key is to surround ourselves with positive influences, like supportive friends and mentors, and to create an environment that fosters our growth and progress.

We also discussed the role of failure in the process of motivation. Many of us admitted that fear of failure often holds us back from taking risks or trying new things. But we came to understand that failure is not something to be feared—it’s an integral part of the learning process. Every mistake or setback offers valuable lessons that can propel us forward. Rather than letting failure discourage us, we learned to embrace it as an opportunity for growth. By celebrating even the small steps of progress, we could stay motivated and inspired to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges ahead.

DAY 7

The seventh day of our yoga programme began with the Romanian version of *Family Feud*. The large group was divided into six smaller teams who competed against each other and answered questions. Each answer was awarded points based on how many participants chose it as the most important option – the more times an answer was mentioned, the higher its score. I honestly don’t remember which team won, but my team didn’t do particularly well in this game. 

The topic the Romanian team dealt with that day was *Digital Wellness and Detox Theory*. Building on this, our Bosnian team took on the practical implementation of the digital detox. We started by taking away everyone’s mobile phones – a real challenge for some! We then lightened the mood with the energiser *”This is the story of my pony ’*. 

We then split the group into two smaller groups: One stayed in the group room while the other went to the dining hall. The first group had the task of creating a flowing yoga session from five given yoga positions. To do this, they were divided into groups of three. At the same time, the second group painted a picture based on a key question. After 30 minutes, the groups swapped activities. 

Finally, we brought all the participants back together and took them on a relaxing dream journey. We played one last round of *”This is the story of my pony ’* so that nobody fell asleep during the lunch break. Our workshop went down so well that we received high praise from the Romanian team leader. 

After the lunch break, the Spanish team took over with a *Content Creation* session. The first part aimed to create a creative Instagram story, while the second round involved producing a short video to capture the essence of the workshop. In the end, five great videos were created that perfectly reflected the dynamics of the day. And so ended our eventful seventh yoga day! 

Day 8

The final day of our programme focused on an in-depth exploration of the relationship between emotional intelligence and social media. This session was particularly relevant to our ongoing discussions about the impact of digital platforms on our emotional well-being. We discovered that social media’s influence on our emotional perceptions is complex and multifaceted. One key point that emerged was how digital communication, especially through text messages and social media posts, lacks the non-verbal cues that are crucial for understanding emotions in face-to-face interactions. In traditional communication, we rely on facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice to interpret emotions accurately. In contrast, digital communication often reduces emotions to mere words or emojis, which can easily lead to misunderstandings or a distorted perception of someone’s feelings.

We also examined how social media affects self-esteem, especially among young people. The constant exposure to highly curated, idealised images of other people’s lives on platforms like Instagram and TikTok can lead to unhealthy comparisons. We learned that the more we compare ourselves to others online, the more likely we are to develop a negative self-image. For adolescents and young adults, who are still in the process of forming their identities, this can be particularly damaging. The pressure to live up to unrealistic standards can result in feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. This discussion prompted us to think more critically about the images we see online and how they might not reflect the reality of people’s lives.

In addition to the challenges posed by social media, we also recognised its potential to enhance emotional intelligence. We explored how digital tools and platforms can help young people become more aware of their own emotions and learn to regulate them effectively. For example, certain apps are designed to help individuals track their moods, practice mindfulness, and develop coping strategies for stress. These tools can complement traditional methods of emotional growth, offering new ways for young people to build their emotional resilience in a digital world.

We also discussed the importance of promoting empathy in digital interactions. Although face-to-face communication is ideal for emotional connection, it is still possible to foster empathy in online conversations by being mindful of the emotions behind the words. This requires consciously recognising the feelings of others, even when communicating through text or social media. By making an effort to understand the emotions of those around us—whether online or in person—we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment, both in the digital world and beyond.

Throughout the day, we engaged in various activities designed to help us develop the skills needed to navigate social media in a healthy, emotionally intelligent way. We learned how to recognise the signs of emotional distress in ourselves and others and how to use social media in ways that promote positive emotions and personal growth. This included seeking out supportive communities, engaging with content that uplifts us, and setting boundaries around our digital consumption to protect our mental health.

The Erasmus project on ‘Emotional Intelligence and Social Media’ concluded with a deep reflection on the complex relationship between the two. We realised that social media is not inherently good or bad—it’s all about how we use it. By approaching digital platforms with mindfulness and emotional awareness, we can harness their positive aspects while minimising the negative impacts. The key takeaway was the importance of finding a balance between the digital world and our emotional well-being, and how we can use social media in a way that enhances our emotional intelligence, rather than diminishing it.+