What Does It Feel Like to Quit Social Media: A Personal Journey to Freedom

Quitting social media isn't as simple as turning off a switch. It is a process of gradual reduction and ultimately, total detachment. For me, the journey began when I limited my social media use by 90%, leaving just one platform to stay in touch with family and friends. The impact of this decision was both profound and liberating.

Reducing Exposure to Hate Speech

One of the primary reasons I limited my social media usage was to decrease the amount of far-right hate speech I encountered daily. Russian bots were a significant contributor to this negativity, and by reducing my exposure, I was able to manage my mental health more effectively. The peace of mind that comes from minimizing such negativity is invaluable.

Tolerating Quora and Facebook

Platforms like Quora and Facebook often leave me with a sense of frustration. Quora, with its endless questioning and sometimes unhelpful answers, can be a drain on my patience. Facebook, managed by a corporation often criticized for its profit-motivated policies, doesn't offer much in the way of genuine connection. It's essential to recognize these feelings and find ways to mitigate them. For example, setting specific times to check these platforms can help prevent constant distractions.

The Pain of quitting

Detoxing from social media addiction is akin to any other form of addiction. The initial stages can be agonizing and stressful. It's crucial to have a strong support system in place, whether that's friends, family, or a professional. Relying on someone who also spends significant time on social media platforms can be counterproductive. Instead, find individuals who can offer genuine, genuine support and encouragement during this transition.

Lessons Learned from a Week's Detox

I decided to take a week-long break from all social media, focusing solely on my work obligations. During this time, I limited my usage to only professional activities and distractions were minimized. No Whatsapp, no Facebook, no Instagram, no Quora, and no scrolling. Instead, I engaged in activities that offered a different kind of fulfillment.

For instance, I joined the gym to release pent-up energy, interacted with real and new people, explored nearby markets and temples, and engaged in spiritual practices. These activities allowed me to disconnect from the virtual world and connect with reality. I also spent time listening to stories of the priests and sipping coffee with traditional Hindi stories, which helped me explore new visions and energies.

I discovered that the internet is not just for social media; it can be used to expand my horizons. The time saved from idle scrolling was instead invested in enhancing my personal and spiritual growth. Cleansing my mind and soul is as important as cleansing my body, and this experience highlighted the importance of such practices.

Real Moments and Self-Discovery

Living in the moment without the pressure of sharing every activity on social media was liberating. It allowed me to truly experience the joy and challenges of real life. I met myself, and in the process, I came to know myself better. The journey to personal growth began with letting go of the world as I knew it and embracing new visions.

While social media and taking pictures are not inherently bad, the obsession and overdoing it can be detrimental. It's important to find a balance and use social media as a tool rather than a dependency. By doing so, we can enrich our lives and connect with the real world around us.

Final Thoughts

Quitting social media isn't just about reducing usage; it's about reclaiming your time and energy. The freedom to live in the present moment without constant distractions is a valuable gift. If you're considering a similar journey, try taking small steps at first. The journey to a healthier relationship with social media can be both fulfilling and rewarding.