Most people don’t realize how much social media we use throughout the course of a day. Over the past decade, social media has taken over our lives and created a new cyber world where anyone can be whatever they want. Sounds great, right? In reality social media has, in many cases, created more negative than beneficial effects within society. We become consumed with the virtual world and forget about real life.
On social media, we build connections with people without ever actually interacting. In many cases, being a "friend” online does not correlate with reality. This then poses the difficult question, “Is social media really necessary?” In some cases, many find it important and even rewarding to take a social media detox and to disconnect from the cyber world, to focus more on the here and now. Here are the most important reasons to take a break from social media.
1. Focus On Yourself
Social media leads people to focus more upon others rather than themselves. We are constantly bombarded by others' accomplishments, whether it’s posting photos or tweeting about an exciting life experience, it causes us to compare ourselves to other people. In fact, many studies have shown that social media is a direct cause for low self-esteem and anxiety. Take this hiatus and focus on bettering yourself without the influence of others.
2. Become More Productive
Let's be honest -- we have all spent way to much time on social media and cyber stalking. Without this constant distraction you never know what you might accomplish. Maybe start studying for a test or go for the run you’ve been putting off. Keeping your mind occupied is the first step to a more productive lifestyle.
3. Live In The Moment
In this day and age, it’s natural for us to post every little thing on social media. Instead of looking at something through fresh eyes, we look at life through the camera of our phones. Living in the moment lets us experience life firsthand and not worry about silly things like what Snapchat filter we should be using.
4. Disconnect To Make A True Connection
Even though you might be friends on Facebook or follow someone on Twitter, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have a true friendship. In fact, you may have never met this person before in your life. If you really want to make a true connection, ditch the social media and focus more on making real life friendships, whether that be through classes or extracurricular activities.
5. We Are What We Post
Sometimes many of us don’t think before we post to social media. Even though that Friday night with your friends was a blast, future employers don’t need to know about the amount shots you consumed. What we post represents us as an individual and says a lot about our character.
Whether you use social media once a day or are constantly hooked to your phone, we can all do without social media for a short while. During this hiatus you might find something new about yourself and gain the confidence you never knew you had.
