Living Without Social Media: What I Learned from a Three-Year Hiatus

For many of us, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. We wake up to the sound of notifications on our phones, scroll through feeds during meals, and spend hours lost in the digital abyss. The mere thought of being disconnected from our beloved social media sites may seem like a clip from a horror movie; anxiety may begin to settle in, and serious withdrawal symptoms may be experienced. But what if, just for once in your life, you could experience the quietness of your mind? What if you had the courage to live without being “connected” and still feel that you are a part of something greater? You can.

As someone who left the “social media scene” in 2011 and was on sabbatical for three years, here’s what I learned from that social media hiatus:

1. You miss it for a few weeks and then you move on

Yes, you will feel withdrawals, experience separation anxiety, and wonder what’s happening in everyone’s lives. But, like any breakup, it hurts, you miss it, but eventually, you move on. The great thing about this breakup is that you have the upper-hand because you ended the relationship. Don’t let Facebook or any other platform convince you to stay in it, going back to an ex after a breakup is never a wise idea anyway. It’s best to let it go and take control of your digital life.

2. You feel proud and excited about newly found free time

What will you do with all this extra time on your hands? The possibilities are endless. You can reach out to your friends and family and “catch up” with them. You can read a book, take up a new hobby, or simply spend time outside, enjoying the great outdoors. You’ll be amazed at how much free time you have and what you can accomplish without social media constantly distracting you.

3. You learn that the problem with your lack of time is not social media

If you don’t have time to finish your work or pursue your passions, it’s not because of social media. It’s because of a lack of drive to get things done. You need to take responsibility for your own time management skills and create a schedule that offers a balance between work, hobbies, and leisure time. If you’re busy living life to the fullest, you’ll know when it’s time to shut down your devices and focus on what truly matters.

4. You never overshare ever again

Once you’ve been disconnected from social media for a while, rejoining the digital world can come as a shock. You’ll see pictures and updates that you once shared freely and realize they’re too much for the world to see. You’ll rethink what you share and learn that it’s best to keep things simple and not overshare. We all have a right to our privacy, and it’s crucial to exercise it in the digital world.

5. You incorporate the word balance into your life

The most fulfilling life is not one that shuts off the world or one that over-shares everything with the world. Instead, it’s one that allows you to be yourself, think out your thoughts, and know when to say, “I’ve had enough for today.” You need to find the balance between digital and offline life, and that can only happen when you’ve taken a break from social media.

In conclusion, living without social media may seem daunting, but it’s an experience worth trying. You’ll rekindle your connection with the world around you, learn to prioritize your time, and strike a balance between digital and real-life. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed with social media, take a break, and see the difference. It may be the best thing you do for yourself.