The Social Media Detox That Could Change How You Spend Your Time

The idea always appealed to me, but I never took that interest seriously until recently. About a month ago, I told myself I would stay off social media for a week. A week passed, and it felt SO good, so i told myself, “let’s see how long i can go". It was a fun challenge. everyone should reap the benefits of taking a break from the media and learn more about themselves without being influenced by what others are telling them they “should” be doing.

Instead of setting goals for myself, I set experiments. In week one, I allowed myself to only consume health content through YouTube or books. I thought I might end up doomscrolling on Youtube but instead I rewinded a bunch of times so I could take notes. Once the video was done, I let the information soak in and shared my most interesting findings with others.

One way to know you’ve actually learned something is to teach it to someone else! Have you ever noticed you can go on and on about your favorite subject? It’s ‘cause you’re an expert in that field and could teach anyone about it. Look into the things you want to learn more about and become a pro!

shot by Destiny Cuevas

Social Media As a Tool

Intentionally telling myself what I would consume made the media feel like a tool, not an escape. It’s easy to fall into the habit of scrolling and consuming so much information all at once. We weren’t meant to experience so many different emotions in the span of a few minutes. one video can make you laugh, the next can make you sad, the next can trigger you, etc.

you lose sight of who is really in control

My Days Became Longer

I’ve freed up time to read and write. My first two loves. It’s refreshing to come back to self. I encourage you to set a challenge that sounds fun to you. maybe it’s:

• no Instagram for 24hrs

• only use social media for 1hr/day

• use social media with the intention to only consume [insert genre] content

remember, your challenge will look different. how do you spend most of your days? is this the quality of life you want to continue?