Embracing a Digital Detox: A Personal Journey
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Chapter 1: The Digital Disconnect
Recently, I decided to take a bold leap and cut ties with social media. What led me to this decision? As Thom Yorke aptly expresses in Radiohead's song "Packt Like Sardines In a Crushd Tin Box," I consider myself a reasonable individual. Over the past few weeks, I felt an overwhelming urge to detach from the current mainstream social media platforms. My experience with Twitter has been rocky ever since their algorithm mistakenly flagged my account, but my struggles with Facebook and Instagram have been even more pronounced.
My Investment in Social Media
I had dedicated considerable time and energy to building a presence on these platforms, making it difficult to walk away from what I had cultivated over the years. With over 1,400 friends on Facebook and managing three pages with followers ranging from 1,200 to 3,800, I felt a sense of attachment. My Instagram account, while modest with 450 followers, was curated to follow primarily influential brands, UX/UI accounts for inspiration, dancers, and visual artists. This was my attempt to stay creatively stimulated during mindless scrolling.
Understanding the Hook of Social Media
I recognize that the time and energy invested in these platforms act as a UX hook, fostering a deeper bond with the digital experience. For me, it's more than just connection; as an artist, I seek to use social media for communication and promotion. Yet, the messiness of it all has become overwhelming. I find myself battling algorithms just to share personal moments and connect with friends. It's exhausting.
To thrive in my creative pursuits—whether dancing, designing, or engaging with self-development—I realized I needed to simplify my life and reduce the challenges I had imposed on myself. Thus, I bid farewell to Facebook and Instagram, deeming them too manipulative and detrimental to my well-being.
Video Title: Alcohol Addiction: How To Detox & Begin Recovery | Stanford - YouTube
In this video, experts discuss the importance of detoxification and recovery, paralleling my journey of stepping back from social media for mental clarity and health.
Chapter 2: The Power of Choice
Having recently quit smoking, I found that the first month was surprisingly manageable. I needed a decisive moment to help me quit, and it arrived. My approach was straightforward: a strict no-smoking policy for the first month. After that, I allowed myself a single night each month where I could smoke five cigarettes. This rule, while seemingly trivial, gives me a sense of control and freedom.
The concept of "no-rule within a rule" empowers me to manage my smoking desire without feeling deprived. By being mindful of my choices, I can enjoy these moments without losing control. This practice not only helps me maintain my desire to quit but also reinforces my agency in decision-making.
Applying the Same Principles to Social Media
Similarly, I’ve established a "no-rule rule" for social media. I’ve decided to share only on one platform, using articles as my outlet for expression. This allows me to fully articulate my thoughts and feelings without the pressure of social media engagement metrics. It’s a personal reflection that fosters deeper connections, even if they are less frequent.
Ending Relationships with Platforms
Recognizing when something no longer serves us is crucial. I distanced myself from Facebook and Instagram for a month, and the break turned into a couple of months. The catalyst was a carousel post on Instagram expressing my feelings of being "too much" and "not enough" simultaneously. The lack of engagement reinforced my sense of inadequacy, prompting my decision to step back.
As I write this article, I’m embarking on a new journey of self-expression and reflection. The process of writing has become a therapeutic outlet, helping me navigate my thoughts and emotions while leaving behind the chaos of social media.
Track Mood: Lianne La Havas — Never Get Enough
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