Quitting social media isn’t as easy as I thought, but I made it!
Back in 2021, I never imagined uninstalling or even taking a break from social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. (Back then, I only dabbled in TikTok, uploading a single video before abandoning it.) I saw them as fast and efficient information hubs, offering updates on everything from bootcamps and scholarships to friends’ lives. To me, social media seemed crucial for staying connected and avoiding “missing out” on discussions with friends.
However, 2023 brought a turning point. A series of events forced me to reassess the impact of social media on my personal and professional life. I never expected it to be the year I’d bid farewell to Instagram, Twitter, and even TikTok, but I gracefully removed them from my phone. Initially, I clung to a web browser version on my laptop, but eventually, I cut the cord entirely. Why?
Put simply, 2023 threw a lot of curveballs, leaving me emotionally drained. Being laid off twice, coupled with the close passing of both my aunt and grandmother within a short timeframe, felt like an incredible weight constantly bearing down on me. Witnessing others’ accomplishments, instead of motivating me, simply added fuel to the fire of envy and jealousy, further dampening my spirits. Seeing someone of your age achieve incredible things while feeling stuck despite your best efforts is a truly disheartening experience. While I intellectually understand that people have the right to share their successes on social media, it still created a pervasive feeling of inadequacy and misfortune compared to them.
The root cause? Constant comparison. Even though I knew everyone has their own unique path, the negativity took over in moments of vulnerability, leading me to focus solely on the detrimental aspects of social media. This realization fueled my decision to take a break, focusing on myself and limiting unnecessary information overload.
I replaced social media with reading manga, manhwa, books, and even YouTube videos. This shift has significantly improved my quality of life, fostering peace and progress at my own pace. Conversations with friends feel more meaningful and engaging now, devoid of superficial small talk. Instead, we delve deeper into each other’s lives.
My focus on work has also sharpened. Without the distractions of social media, I can accomplish tasks significantly faster, experiencing a boost in productivity. There are downsides, of course. I might miss out on specific opportunities, like Instagram-exclusive programs. However, I can always find alternate information sources through communities on Telegram or LinkedIn.
Looking back, it’s been the best decision I’ve made in years. Despite initial apprehensions, I genuinely enjoy life without social media and don’t plan on returning to it extensively. Perhaps I’ll use it solely to share my own content in the future.
Thank you, 2023, for the challenges. They served as valuable lessons, reflecting the proverb: “Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”
