As someone who spends a lot of time on social media, I’ve started to recognize how important it is to come up for air every once in a while. It’s easy to get into a routine, as I have, of waking up, scrolling through Instagram, browsing your Twitter feed, and perusing Facebook…all before you have even gotten out of bed. What’s worse, is that I have found myself scrolling through Instagram every chance I get—whether that’s in the check-out line at the grocery store or into the wee hours of the night (when I should be sleeping). So what’s a girl to do when you love your social media feeds, but really need to take a timeout? Insert the digital detox.
I’ve read plenty of posts on doing a digital detox, reaping benefits from it, and limiting your social media usage at critical times of the day, like before bed. Since we are bracing for a major snow storm on the East Coast this Tuesday (foiling my plans of having my scan done in New York City this week), I figured this past weekend was a nice time to take a hiatus from social media.
In the past, the idea of being “offline” for a whole weekend would scare me. Just thinking about all the posts and pictures I would miss makes me scream #FOMO. But after blogging for more than three years, I have learned that it’s okay to take a step back. Sometimes you need time for yourself or a little breathing space to feel inspired to post again. And that’s okay.
While I did post on Instagram once during my digital detox, I spent much less time scrolling through content. Rather than feeling like I was missing out all weekend, I felt free. I wasn’t tethered to my iPhone or trying to find the perfect picture to post, but I was able to enjoy my weekend and capture each moment with my own eyes…instead of my iPhone.
Now that my weekend digital detox is over, I am looking forward to jumping back on all of my beloved platforms (especially Instagram!) with a renewed appreciation…and perhaps some self-imposed time limits.
Tell me, have you ever done a digital detox?
*Image via PicLab Studio
I am doing a digital detox on weekend during Lent. It has been fabulous! I really have enjoyed just relaxing and taking in everything around me. I might continue after Lent is over. Have a great week Vanessa!
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
I hear you, Kathrine! I think it is important to get off social media every now and then. I swear, I came back much more refreshed—and I think I lost some of the FOMO I felt earlier in the week.
I totally hear you. I take breaks from social media and my blog from time to time and it’s good for the soul. Being in the moment rather than concentrating on capturing pretty images for likes and follows is super refreshing. It takes discipline so at night I leave my phone charging in another room and when I’m on social media, I set the timer on my phone so I have a healthy time limit and then move on with my day.
Taffeta & Tulips
I like the idea of setting a timer! I can get so lost scrolling through Instagram, that I forget how long I’ve been at it. A timer is a great idea, Kate!
I definitely take digital detoxes, i’ll go a couple days w/out posting, always feels so good! nice post.
xoxo, Sakura
https://www.midorilinea.com/blogs/midori-linea/cest-la-vie
Thanks, Sakura! I’m definitely going to do them from time to time. You really do return to social media feeling more refreshed. Thanks for visiting!