Social Media Detox

In today's hyper-connected world, social media is a staple of daily life. It keeps us updated, entertained, and in touch with friends and family. However following a recent conversation about the effects of always being available , I recently decided to take a break from it, and the results have been unexpectedly profound.

The Decision to Unplug

Initially, the idea of disconnecting from social media felt daunting. How would I keep up with the latest news? Would I miss important updates from friends? Despite these concerns, I decided to give it a try, curious to experience what life would be like without being constantly reachable through multiple channels. It did take some time for me to get used to not picking up the phone constantly, a bad habit I have formed over time.

The Surprising Benefits

Increased Presence

One of the first changes I noticed was how much more present I felt in my daily life. Without the constant pull to check notifications, I found myself more engaged in conversations and activities. I started to savor moments without feeling the need to document or share them online. This increased presence allowed me to connect more deeply with those around me and appreciate things in a way I didn't realise I was missing.

Sharper Focus

Social media is a notorious distraction. It’s easy to lose hours scrolling through feeds without realising it. During the break (which is on going) , I found my focus and productivity dramatically improved. Tasks that had seemed tedious were now manageable, and I was able to immerse myself in personal projects without the constant urge to check my phone.

Rediscovering the Joy of Reading & Studying

With more free time on my hands, I rekindled my love for reading and learning. Books that had been gathering dust on my shelves were finally reopened . I have so many books, that I "had no time to read" . Reading not only expanded my knowledge but also provided a healthy escape from busy times. I found studying for work or for my coaching projects easier, because guess what... I had headspace.

Healthier Mind and Body

Stepping away from the digital noise had a positive impact on my mental and physical health. Meditating or reading instead of scrolling without the constant barrage of information and comparisons. My sleep improved as I no longer spent nights mindlessly scrolling. Physically, I felt more energised and motivated to exercise and get the daily steps in.

The Dual Nature of Social Media

While my break from social media brought many benefits, it’s important to acknowledge its positive aspects too. Social media can be a powerful tool for staying connected with loved ones, sharing important information, and discovering new interests. It can also provide support and community, especially during challenging times.

However, the negative aspects can’t be ignored. I wish people understood that most of us will post/share the positive aspects of life, it doesn't mean we are exempt from life's rollercoaster of challenges, perhaps most of us chose not to share negativity, this then creates the false narrative that everyone's life is of course perfect. The addictive nature of endless scrolling, and the constant exposure to negative news ( I have deleted the news apps) can take a toll on our mental well-being, sometimes it left me feeling drained. The key is finding a balance that allows us to enjoy the benefits without succumbing to the downsides.

Embracing a Balanced Approach

This break has taught me that I don’t need to be constantly connected to be informed and involved. I am certain I will reintroduce social media into my life, but with a more mindful approach. Setting boundaries, such as limiting daily usage and managing my feeds to focus on positive and meaningful content, will help maintain the balance I’ve found. It feels great!

Conclusion

Taking a social media break has been an eye-opening experience. It revealed how much I needed a respite from the digital noise, even though I didn’t realise it. The benefits of being more present, focused, and healthier far outweighed the initial discomfort of disconnecting. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of social media, or of the world we are in where we are "always available" maybe you too would enjoy a break. You might be surprised at how much you gain by simply unplugging.

Current books I am reading:

Diary of a CEO - Steven Bartlett

The Subtle Art of Not giving a F*%K - Mark Manson

Atomic Habits - James Clear