I’m old enough to remember a time before social media (and the web). But I don’t recall taking a break from these platforms in recent years. It seems like I’ve been hooked since the days of MySpace. Yes, another reference to my age. 😅
I’m amazed how one can become addicted without realizing it. Given that I sit in front of a computer all day, it seemed logical to keep a browser tab or two open to Facebook, the former Twitter, and now Bluesky. Not to mention my phone stays with me at all hours. I wouldn’t be surprised if I checked these apps hundreds of times per day.
I enjoy interacting with people. We discuss web design, sports, music, and other hot topics. It’s a way to communicate even though I don’t leave my home office much.
However, it feels like the benefits of social media left me a long time ago. The supposed Utopia died and was replaced by a hellscape of sorts. Now, it’s constant negativity.
It’s one reason why I abandoned X this year. Elon Musk’s influence on the platform convinced me that Bluesky was a better alternative. And it is. Yet, I can’t seem to escape the negativity. There’s probably a good reason for that.
I’m not blind to what’s happening in the world. I know there are sad and scary things out there. Concerned people will post about it, and bad actors will stir the pot. It’s what humans do.
I am not immune to letting my opinions and fears get the best of me. I also realize that I’m feeding a self-fulfilling prophecy. Speaking out is important, but it doesn’t mean much without action. And social media is more about the former than the latter.
I feel like all I’ve accomplished is shouting into a void and making myself a nervous wreck. It’s hard to feel well when there’s always something to be angry about. No meme or dad joke can erase the effects of this constant stream of bad news.
Taking an Unexpected Break
I woke up one recent morning and told myself that I wasn’t going to check social media. It’s not the first time I’ve had this idea. However, it’s the first time that I followed through on the promise.
I’ve avoided doomscrolling for about six days as of this writing. I have posted work-related content, but avoid looking at anything else. The difference has been noticeable.
Sure, I’m still grumpy (some things will never change). But I don’t feel the weight of the world on my shoulders. My brain is not full of angry thoughts or frustrations. I’m even getting more things done around the house.
Most of all, I’ve rid myself of feeling distracted. I found it was hard to have a conversation with anyone or concentrate on work while feasting on the next outrage. I’ve improved in both areas.
As they say in baseball, it’s a small sample size. Yet, I’m pleasantly surprised at how much better I feel. That’s not to say I won’t have other things that anger or frustrate me. But perhaps my brain won’t be in a constant state of vigilance, either.
The hard part will be making this last. Then again, maybe cheating now and then isn’t a bad thing. It will remind me of how detrimental these platforms are to my mental health. I’ll be better equipped to take a peek and say, “thanks, but no thanks”.
Do you feel stressed out by social media? Take a break! It might be easier than you think.