I recently took a year-long hiatus from Instagram. I know, I know! You're saying think about all the pictures you didn’t share, or the events on your life you didn’t get to broadcast. I realized that I, myself, started to become an addict and found that the repercussions negatively impacted things happening in my life. I want to give the disclaimer that I think social media is a wonderful thing. I think it brings people together, allows you to document memorable moments in your life and it can even help you get a job. All this being said, I think we can recognize that it is possible to become overly consumed with social media. With so many outlets that include Instagram, Facebook, SnapChat, Twitter etc., it’s hard not to! However, because I took this break from Instagram and deleted all other media outlets (aside from Facebook) I feel the need, no, the responsibility to let you know what you’re missing out on if you’re addicted to social media.
1. Beauty Sleep
“WHAT?!” You say. “I’m a busy student, I know how to sleep.” Well, as a sleep advocate and a frequent user of the snooze button, let me tell you that if you’re addicted to social media you probably haven’t gotten quality sleep in a while. Think about drifting off to sleep without being a zombie glued to your phone light or imagine waking up to anything other than notification buzzes. Trust me, lack of social media will prove premium sleep.
2. Delicious Food
Have I got your attention now? A doctor once told me that people who watch television while they eat tend to overeat. If you’re routinely checking updates, you probably won't be thinking about how yummy your food is. Also, you could be eating past the point of being full. Think over-consumption of social media equals over-consumption of pizza.
3. The Views
Have you ever tried to take a picture of the moon when it looks huge? Let me tell you from personal experience, it doesn’t come across as magnificent as it does in the pictures. As does most incredible views, so be present and enjoy them while they’re there.
4. Good Conversation
I know you’re rolling your eyes! This may seem like a cliche point to make but this is very true. A couple years back, it was impossible to sit down and have lunch with my friends. We were always looking at our phones, checking updates or reading something meaningless online. It wasn't until we made a pact to put our phones away when we were together, did we actually become closer. Take my word, real life drama is more exciting than social media gossip.
5. Opportunities
Not to say that opportunities can't come from social media, but it's common knowledge that these crucial moments make their appearance when you least expect it. You don’t want to be staring at your phone when something life-changing and memorable comes your way. You know the saying, 'when one door closes, a window opens'? Don't miss the breeze coming through the window! That's my philosophical way of advising not to have your head buried in your phone because you never know what amazing opportunities the day holds.
6. Privacy
Keep in mind that you don’t have to update everyone on everything going on in your life. In fact, I think most people would agree that's quite annoying. The biggest thing I learned from taking a social media break is that what makes life so special is the fact that it's personal. Just because it is not published online does not mean it didn't happen. It's important to keep some aspects of your life to yourself.
Don’t let your life pass you by because you’re caught up in social media apps. Life is incredible and you can live it any way you want. Enjoy your life, and you’ll find more happiness than you ever could from social media.
