Digital Detox: Benefits Of Taking A Social Media Break

Have you heard the adage “Comparison is the thief of joy”? Well, if there’s anything it relates to the most, it’s social media. Two Unwritten writers recently talked about taking social media breaks, and here are their thoughts and experiences. And they share the benefits of a social media detox 

Theresa:

Lately, I’ve been struggling with self-esteem and where I am versus where I feel I should be. When I doom scroll, it only makes me feel worse. Not to mention, technology takes away from the in-person connections we all crave.

My wife and I went on a mini vacation for a few days last week, and I abandoned social media during that time. It was so freeing! We laughed, enjoyed one another’s company, took in nature, and spent precious time with family, friends, and our dog! 

Does this mean I’m abandoning technology forever? No.

However, I will be a lot more intentional about where and how I spend my time. There is so much beauty in the natural world around us, resulting in wonderful memories and conversations with people you’re physically present with. When we are nearing the end of life, we won’t remember that funny TikTok we watched. Instead, we will hopefully be thinking of our loved ones and the time we’ve spent with them. 

Not being on our phones also allows us to pick up a book, a paintbrush, a camera, or a spatula. We can find more time for hobbies, old and new. When was the last time you took a technology break? I encourage you to do so soon and create more awareness of your immediate surroundings. It will be worth it, I promise. 

Larissa:

I started using social media platforms in my late teens. Just like many others, I became addicted to them. I loved the opportunities for connection and networking these platforms provided. They can help you build a name for yourself and your business or brand if that’s what you want. 

Having said that, detoxing from social media platforms has its benefits. Unplugging from the online world can help you feel connected to the real world surrounding you. It allows you to experience authenticity and enjoy the people, beauty, and nature right before you.

Another benefit of unplugging is getting back to old hobbies. People found entertainment before there was such a thing as doom scrolling! Some ideas you might want to consider are scrapbooking, creative writing, and reading.

Have I unplugged from social media recently? It has been a while since I have, but I am due for one soon. 

Doing so will help me start living in the moment more. I’m not planning on completely quitting social media. However, an occasional reset is necessary to remind us about the important things in life, such as living in the moment. That’s all we should care about at the end of the day. 

Unplugging from social media can bring lots of benefits. Quitting social media altogether might not be realistic for most of us, but taking some time away from it can be crucial for your health.

Have any of you tried to unplug recently? How did it go? Let us know in the comments down below.

Written by Larissa Martin and Theresa Faughnan

Featured image via Angela Franklin on Unsplash