In a world dominated by social media, I often find myself questioning the real value it adds to my life. Next time you're about to post on your favorite platform, ask yourself this: "Am I looking at myself, or am I looking at how other people look at me?" It's a question that digs deep into the nature of our online presence.

Why do we even post?

Social media seems to have become a signaling tool. We broadcast our lives, trying to convey a certain image. But why do we feel this need? Is it rooted in insecurity, a desire to fit in, or the need to impress someone special?

Think twice about people’s opinions online.

The irony lies in our obsession with how others perceive us. We claim to value ourselves more than anyone else, yet we put more weight on their opinions over our own. If we genuinely treasured our own thoughts and beliefs, we wouldn't constantly seek validation from the outside world. When we care too much about what others think, we enter a dangerous game of comparison, fueling our insecurities.

And for those who don’t even post, have you asked yourself why you feel like it’s a good idea to check in on the opinions of so many people? Doing that must cloud your own authentic thoughts. It can’t be good for mental health.

It’s Weaponized

Let's not forget that some of the brightest minds of our generation have designed algorithms on these platforms with the sole aim of keeping us addicted. Each time we reach for our phones, we're being manipulated. Do you really want to be jerked around on a string like a puppet, mindlessly scrolling? It's time to consciously acknowledge this fact and regain control. Becoming addicted to social media can have detrimental effects on our brains, as shown in this study.

In short, the detrimental effects are reduced attention, impaired emotional and social intelligence, technology addiction, social isolation, adverse impacts on cognitive and brain development, and sleep disturbances.

It’s Just a Game

Ultimately, social media is a game society presents to us. We have a choice: to play it or to abstain from it by seeing through the game entirely. When you unveil the game's true nature, you'll likely conclude that you're better off without it or at least limiting your time spent on it. You don’t need to participate in a game because everyone else is playing it. Be authentic to what you want to do.

Be Present

Instead of reflexively reaching for your phone when you have a spare moment, consider a different approach. Let's say you're waiting in line for something – challenge yourself to listen to your thoughts. Pay attention to the chattering going on in your monkey mind. It can be challenging at first, but over time, you might start to see things more clearly and gain a grip on why you're feeling a certain way. Additionally, why not observe your surroundings? Engaging with the world around you can lead to newfound insights and a deeper connection with the present moment. Wouldn’t you want to live this way before you leave this planet?

Embrace the Battle

I'll be the first to admit that I still struggle with mindless scrolling, especially on apps like Instagram and Snapchat. However, acknowledging the reasons I should avoid social media has helped me make great progress. The path to reducing its grip on my life isn't easy, but it's worth it. If someone like me can embark on this journey, so can you.

My ongoing struggle with social media serves as a reminder of the importance of limiting its influence. It's a journey toward discipline, self-discovery, and genuine happiness. I hope my reflections encourage you to evaluate your relationship with social media and take steps towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Will I return to social media? Perhaps. Will I post again? Maybe. Will I continue to limit my time on these platforms? Without a doubt.

LeBron breaking the all-time NBA scoring record. Would you have your phone out too? Did these fans go to witness the actual accomplishment, or did they go just to show they were there for the actual accomplishment?

Actions that helped me

Deleted social media apps from phone
Carrying a good book with me
Journaling when I have impulses to check my phone - what was driving them?
Reading a book before bed

Why I Choose to Limit My Time on Social Media