Social media… where do I even begin? There is so much I love about social apps- sharing memories, connecting with women from all over the world, and staying informed. But on the other hand, you deal with the not-so-nice parts of it, such as online trolls, lack of privacy, FOMO, and constant comparison to others. It happens to the best of us, but social media can really mess with our mood and mindset. That’s why I’m a big fan of taking social media breaks when need be. Below, I’ve listed all of the ways that I find a social media detox to be helpful. If you’ve noticed yourself sitting on your phone and ending up frustrated, upset, or overwhelmed by what you’re seeing online, it’s time to take a break! Trust me, it’s so worth it.
Privacy
The truth of the matter is that people don’t need to know your personal business. However, these lines always get blurred with social media. Treating yourself to a social media detox can result in the privacy you’ve always desired. You won’t feel the need to constantly update others on your life, and you can keep any milestones or sacred moments in your home. This will only help you set boundaries for the future when it comes to sharing parts of your personal life.
No Comparing
We’re all guilty of comparing ourselves to someone else online, and that’s okay. We’re human! However, a social media break can lessen this need to compare yourself to someone else. Whether it’s an entrepreneur in your field, or someone you’ve followed and have known for years, the comparing comes naturally. I must say that having a hyper-competitive spirit can ultimately be toxic to your own mental health. Logging off and pulling the club leaves you with zero room to compare yourself to someone on the internet.
No Need to Compete
With that being said, the sense of needing to compete on social media is also gone. You’re your own person, and you shouldn’t feel like you need to compete with others in the first place. On the other hand, it’s human nature to see what others are doing and wanting to be on that level or do better. By removing yourself from social media for a while also rids you of this feeling. With a digital detox, competition is a distance stranger.
Spend Time with Yourself
When was the last time you really spent time with yourself? During COVID-19, I bet it’s not a ton of time. Give yourself the break you deserve and spend time with yourself, off of your cell phone and away from social media. Tap into how you’re doing, and how you’re feeling, how you’re handling things. I also think it’s important to really feel how disconnecting affects your mood and mindset. If it’s a good thing, maybe you should do it more often.
No More FOMO
This happens to all of us whether we’d like to admit it or not. FOMO is real, and it’s even realer on social media. I know that we might feel that a little less this year since some stay-at-home orders are still in place, but seeing what others are doing tends to trigger us. Whether it’s seeing people hanging with friends, having a date night, eating some delicious food, it all instills a sense of missing out. However, if you’re not on social media, you can’t even feel that way! If you’ve found yourself feeling a little jealous or like you’re missing out on things, taking a break could likely do you some good. It won’t hurt either way!
