Social Media Cleanse
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

4 Things I Learned During​ My Social Media Cleanse

Your friends posts aren't going anywhere.

290
4 Things I Learned During​ My Social Media Cleanse

I'll admit it, social media has become a part of my daily routine. Every morning before I run out the door I catch myself briskly swiping through Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter to see what I missed out on last night. In between classes I scroll through my feed wondering aimlessly what else I could be doing with my time.

Over break, I realized I was becoming so consumed with what other people were doing that I forgot to live in the moment. So I decided to take a week-long break from social media. Even though a week isn't too long, it truly made me realize a lot. These are the four most important things I learned while on break from my fake world.

1. People only show you want they want you to see.

https://unsplash.com/photos/FTypdFs4LP0

When it comes to social media we get to choose what we post. Scrolling through Instagram and seeing posts from luxurious vacations can really make you wish you had someone else's life. What we often forget is that people don't show you the bad. Nobody posts about their breakups, job losses, failed classes, or overwhelming stress.

They only present to you the side of them that they want you to see. So next time you catch yourself longing for someone else's lifestyle just remember it may not be as glamorous as you think.

2. Nobody really cares about the theme of your Instagram.

https://unsplash.com/photos/JcX_ABVzDZU

I'll be the first one to admit that I'm guilty of not posting pictures I really love because they mess up my Instagram or make it look bad. But at the end of the day, it's my account and I can post what I want. Nobody is going to look at your account and think "their whole Instagram is ruined because they posted that picture." Post what makes you feel good about yourself.

3. Twitter fights rarely change opinions.

https://unsplash.com/photos/HAIPJ8PyeL8

Twitter is a breeding ground for some of the most ridiculous statements. When scrolling down our timelines it can be so easy to want to jump into conversations and tell someone why they're wrong. However, 250 characters and a couple hits to someone's character isn't going to do anything to help your case without making you look bad as well.

So next time you disagree with someone, try reaching out to them one on one and have a conversation with them about your concerns! Hear them out and see why they feel the way they do about certain issues. Understanding both sides of an argument can help you come together and work towards a conclusion. You'll be a lot more likely to sway someone's opinion through a civil conversation than with a tweet war.

4. It's OK to put your phone down.

https://unsplash.com/photos/Pvx24X1uiq4

There is nothing I love more than taking pictures and videos. To me, there is something so special about being able to rewatch a video and transport back into that moment. However, sometimes taking pictures and videos can take us out of the moment. You don't need to watch half a concert through your phone screen as an attempt to get the perfect Snapchat. I promise the music will sound a lot better if you just put your phone down and enjoy the moment.

Similarly, you don't need to constantly refresh your apps to see what other people are doing while you are out, their posts aren't going anywhere.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

94058
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments