Why I Quit Social Media, and Don’t Plan On Going Back

Summary

The author quit social media post-COVID and found the decision beneficial for regaining control over their time, focusing on creative pursuits, improving concentration, avoiding comparison traps, and nurturing genuine relationships.

Abstract

The article discusses the author's decision to quit social media after the pandemic led to an unhealthy increase in screen time. The author reflects on the positive impacts two years after making this choice, including better time management, increased creativity through writing on Medium, improved focus aiding a career transition, freedom from the cycle of comparing oneself to others, and the ability to foster meaningful connections. Despite concerns from friends and family about being out of touch, the author remains committed to a life of digital detox, even recommending an AI service as a cost-effective alternative to ChatGPT Plus (GPT-4) for those interested in trying out similar AI capabilities.

Opinions

The author believes that quitting social media has significantly improved their life quality.
They value genuine connections over the superficial interactions prevalent on social media.
The author has a positive view of AI services, endorsing one as a cost-effective tool.
There is a clear opinion that social media can be a source of distraction and unhealthy comparison.
The author seems to have found a sense of peace and satisfaction in their post-social media life, as indicated by their reaction to friends' and family's concerns.

Unplugging and Thriving, a Tale of Going off the Grid

Photo by camilo jimenez on Unsplash

I think I speak for everyone when I say, the pandemic instigated a surge in my screen time. Chasing trends and mindlessly following reels, became my toxic habit.

So post-COVID, I quit social media. Two years hence, I can affirm, that this was one of my best decisions.

Here’s why

I gained a greater agency over my time.

I redirected my energy into creative outlets such as Medium.

Eliminating distractions improved my focus, and helped me with my career transition.

Liberation from the vicious cycle of comparison. Hmm, Mrs XYZ is vacationing in Bali? Don’t know. Don’t care.

I discovered the true gems in my social circle (it’s surprising how few shine!) and. invested my time in these genuine connections.

My loved ones often exclaim,

Where have you been?

Its like you’ve vanished!

You are missing out on all the gossip!

I simply smile, clutching tight onto my vows of digital detox.