I mentioned previously that I have been off social media since October. I permanently deleted every account. I’m really, really gone.
I’ve also mentioned how this has been more difficult than I expected. I really do miss feeling connected to the world. I miss seeing what is up in the lives of family and friends on a daily basis. I miss staying up to date via Twitter on my favorite authors, politicians, artists, etc.
But I must say: every time a major event occurs, I remember why being off social media is not such a bad thing. Missing the 2016 election in its final stretch prevented me great stress and anxiety. And missing reactions to the recent tragedy in Charlottesville has also been a blessing.
Of course I’m not saying that these events are not significant, and that talking about them is not important. What I am suggesting is that 92% of what I would have seen on social media during these events would have been less than helpful. In fact, it probably caused me to have an aneurism.
Two benefits of being off social media for an extended time have emerged for me. First, anxiety from being so readily connected, all day, every day, has dissipated. I’m way more at peace. Second, because of that peace, I’ve been far more equipped to think in healthy, positive ways about major events occurring. My thoughts have been clearer, more positive.
Maybe you don’t struggle with those two things. But if you do, might I’d suggest you also take a break? It just might save you.