I took a break from social media between Christmas Eve and New Years.
No one challenged me to do it, but I wanted to.
Leading up to the decision I had become bored with posts from just about every social medium subscription. The constant notifications and pressure to see what new story was trending had lost its appeal. Rather than finding inspiration and insight, I found snarky doom and gloom. Friends and acquaintances life updates were eye-roll inducing. Needless to say, I needed to opt-out and the holiday time was the perfect opportunity.
I wasn’t planning to tell anyone about the challenge but I have friends that use the messaging capabilities of some apps to keep in contact. Therefore, I posted an update letting them know I wouldn’t be checking.
The first day or so, I occasionally checked my profile but I noticed it was out of habit.
Next, I deleted all the apps (Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter) off of my phone, logged out and deleted them from my favorites. I moved my phone charger away from my bed and took my laptop out of my room. I was setting myself up for success.
The break unceremoniously came and went. I didn’t have any miraculous breakthroughs, to be honest. Instead I found more time to read books, cook meals and enjoy the moment in real life. If you have been considering taking a break from social media, do it. The news and status updates will be be there when you return.