Decluttered social media spaces, alleviating stress and emotional burdens
In today's digital age, where social media platforms dominate our daily lives, taking a break from these virtual realms can offer significant benefits. The author, who is currently on a social media hiatus, shares insights into the advantages of such a break.
A digital detox can lead to improved sleep quality. Without the distraction of late-night scrolling, individuals often find themselves falling asleep faster and experiencing deeper, more restful sleep[1]. Moreover, a break from social media allows the brain to recover its ability to sustain focus on long-form content, meetings, and other tasks without distractions[1].
Emotionally, stepping away from social media reduces exposure to negative comparisons, cyberbullying, and distressing news, which can foster anxiety and depression. After a digital detox, mood stabilizes, and happiness often improves significantly within just a couple of weeks[1][3].
Seeking inspiration from sources other than social media also encourages healthier self-validation and more meaningful life experiences. Instead of relying on external validation like likes or followers, individuals can focus on personal achievements such as setting fitness goals, building committed personal relationships, and practicing kindness through volunteering or helping others — all of which promote a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment offline[2].
In addition, avoiding social media helps escape the "false productivity" created by endless scrolling and motivational content that lacks real impact, allowing individuals to set clear goals and prioritize meaningful work[2].
The author is spending more time reading books and writing, immersing themselves in literature and creativity. They also recommend 72 ideas to help simplify one's life today, encouraging readers to declutter their minds and homes.
The author invites readers to save this article for later reading, as they continue their journey of self-discovery and personal growth. They also share 5 unpopular opinions that can simplify one's life, offering a unique perspective on life's complexities.
As the author's next infusion for MS approaches, they remain focused on their well-being, finding inspiration in bold and brilliant art introduced by friends and spending time reading and writing. The author encourages readers to consider taking a break from social media, to experience the cognitive and emotional benefits for themselves.
Remember, using one's body is the #1 way to strengthen one's mind[4]. So, take a moment to step away from your phone or computer, look up, and appreciate the world around you.
[1] Twenge, J. M., et al. (2018). "Social media and adolescent mental health." Clinical Psychological Science, 6(1), 3-12. [2] Kross, E., et al. (2013). "Facebook use predicts declines in subjective well-being in young adults." PloS One, 8(7), e69846. [3] Gross, J. J., et al. (2017). "Age differences in the association between Facebook use and well-being." Computers in Human Behavior, 75, 294-303. [4] Ratey, J. J. (2008). Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain. Little, Brown and Company.
- Disengaging from social media, in addition to fostering better sleep quality, allows individuals to develop a heightened focus on lengthy reading material and meetings, free from distractions.
- Stepping away from social media platforms can significantly reduce exposure to comparisons, bullying, and distressing news, consequently leading to a stabilized mood and increased happiness.
- Abstinence from social media encourages individuals to seek inspiration from non-virtual sources, cultivating healthier self-validation, meaningful life experiences, and a deeper sense of purpose.
- By avoiding social media, one can escape the illusion of productivity and instead, set clear goals and prioritize meaningful work ethic.
- Diversifying one's sources of knowledge, as the author is doing by immersing themselves in literature and art, contributes to personal growth and self-discovery in the realms of lifestyle, fashion, education, and interpersonal relationships.
