Over the past decade, a new phenomenon has swept through the world — our addiction to social media.
Everywhere we go are phones follow and because of this the connection to social media never seems to end.
It seems our connection to social media is as strong as it’s ever been. It’s by design to be this way companies like Facebook and Google pay good money to keep you connected at all times.
Simple functions like notifications or never-ending pages are enough to keep you plugged in.
Therefore, a social media hiatus is not only important but necessary to keep your mind sharp so don’t fall victim to the herd mentality that’s been created.
The Positives of Social Media
Now I know you’re thinking, is taking a break from social media worth it? The answer is yes and no.
This is a complex topic because social media is a great way to stay connected with friends and family.
It can also be a great asset to build your career. As an example, a well-built Linkedin profile allows you to reach employers or potential job recruiters looking to hire.
Another example is Twitter, Twitter can be an addicting platform, but users can search for breaking news or important information that matters to them.
I’ve seen many new creators take advantage of social media to make money. Some have developed their own brand, others grow accounts in small niches to sell cool knicknacks and shirts.
Social media has literally made careers, some of the best musicians, comedians and public speakers have gained huge followings overnight. I can also thank social media for bringing back/rebooting some of my favorite shows.
From a few of my examples, there are some benefits to the use of social media.
Social media has many positives, but doesn’t it outweigh the negatives.
The Negatives Of Social Media
Have you ever checked how much time you spend on social media? You’d be surprised how it can affect your wellbeing and your wallet.
Your wellbeing, an important element in strengthening one’s personal finances.
Social media is more than just an app or website it’s an advertiser’s paradise.
Where else can advertisers derive accurate data about a person likes and dislikes.
We understand that everyone needs to make money so we can’t knock the hustle.
But social media will keep you chasing for more or spending money on things you don’t need. Unplugging gives you a break from advertisers and social media influencers.
My little cousin recently got her first job and she was super excited. She set up a personal bank account on her own and has received her first paycheck.
She also follows influencers and other celebs on Instagram. Which isn’t an issue, but it has been tough for her to save money as of late.
When I asked a few questions about her expenses to my surprise all her money was going to skin and beauty supplies.
Items she’d often find from social media or through YouTube tutorials from those same influencers and celebs.
This is where social media can affect your wallet especially if you’re on it all day.
At some point, you will be served an ad whether you realize it or not. She never understood how much influence social media had on her.
Her lack of savings is still a work in progress because her addiction to this medium is a work in progress. Now, I do not blame social media for her actions, but it would be a bit naive to deny it’s an influence.
I don’t want to be hypocritical; blogs are very much the same when it comes to monetization, but as I wrote earlier you can knock the hustle.
As a content creator, it’s nice to get some money for the work you put out into the world.
At this point, you can see why it’s hard to answer the question is taking a break from social media worth it.
Your Wellbeing Is More Important Than A Glaring Screen
Social media can also make you feel like crap. It’s a highlight reel of all your best work after all who wants to be the person posting up regular day events.
Eating cereal in the morning or ending your day watching reruns of the office. This obviously isn’t the recipes to success on Instagram.
The constant reminder of your friends traveling, getting married or having kids can affect your mental wellbeing.
You may feel like life is passing on by or you’re not living life to the fullest. It can live you in a dark place or in a place that is hard to get through.
Remember perception isn’t reality, unplugging gives you a break from those false narratives.
Ultimately your life is as beautiful and fun as you make it, but how will it ever be true if your eyes are glued to someone else’s.
Is taking a break from social media worth it? I say yes, participate here and there but don’t stay on it too long.
I recommend deleting apps like Twitter and YouTube and use their online versions.
Instagram and Facebook should be deleted and redownloaded once every two weeks just to stay updated on friends and family.
Check out some of our recent blogs below. Also one of our post titled PROS AND CONS: MOVING BACK IN WITH PARENTS has been very popular give it a quick read.
