What I Learnt Deleting Instagram For A Week.
Last Sunday I deleted the Instagram app from my phone – revolutionary, I know! As someone who creates content online that felt like quite a big deal to me. No more sharing, no more scrolling. It wasn’t planned, but with December being so busy a break from the all noise was much needed. I recently published a post on how I found a happy place with social media, and I almost felt like I was losing that happy place. Anyway, a week later, lets just say I’ve become an advocate for a good social media detox.
I think we all know we could do with a little less time on social media…
I know a week isn’t actually that long, but it’s a starting point, and for me enough to highlight how addictive Instagram can be. I’m currently in the final few chapters of Notes from a Nervous Planet by Matt Haig. Honestly I could talk about his books and work for hours, but there’s a particular part that really hit home with me. The section where he mentions that it’s social media combined with all the other life stressors that is the potential issue, and for me feeling overwhelmed this time last week couldn’t have been more accurate. I’m focusing on Instagram because that’s my weakness and where I tend to scroll most, but this applies to any social media channels.
How it went deleting instagram for a week…
Day 1: weirdly thinking about instagram a lot. I think because I deleted the app and I’m used to just going on it to fill time, it’s definitely made me realise how much I’m actually on there day to day.
Day 2: this actually feels really good. I used my lunch break to read because Instagram wasn’t an option, I woke up and did yoga this morning. Today I’ve thought A LOT about time and how easy it is for social media
Days 3, 4 and 5: why why why have I not done this sooner?
Day 6: I kind of miss it.
What deleting Instagram has taught me
- I’m much happier creating content rather than consuming it. Like I mentioned at the start of this post there’s just too much noise. I got into Instagram for the joy of creating, and all of a sudden I’m surrounded by so many thoughts and opinions. I’m going to tackle this with a good old clear out and generally spending less time on the app.
- I don’t need to share every single bloody sunrise, just sit and enjoy it
- So. Much. Extra. Time. I can’t believe how much I’m getting done just by not scrolling Instagram. So much stuff that I just wouldn’t have had the time to do before I’ve managed to get sorted.
- When you get back, everyone’s still there, doing the same stuff they were a week ago
- I need to have proper time away from social media in general more often. Reminding myself it’s not real life and only snippets.
Although it does feel good to be back on the app, even just a week away has taught me a fair bit. If you’ve been feeling a little overwhelmed in the run up to Christmas, then I cannot recommend a social media detox enough!
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6 Comments
Ooh this is really interesting. I think it’s the classic FOMO that holds me back from doing a social media detox, which is silly because I probably miss so much from the time I spend scrolling
Emily x | emilyclairewrites.com
Honestly I barely felt FOMO, but that did cross my mind! x
Sometimes Instagram can be a toxic place, much like most social media to be honest. I try my best not to scroll through Instagram as soon as I wake up anymore and just continue with my day without it. I find this helps keep my mind somewhat clear!
Lucy | Forever September
Completely agree, finding the balance is so important. I’ve started trying to do the same and it’s working well, I end up forgetting about it!
This is such a great idea! I loved reading your experience. I feel like this is something I should try soon – this was such an interesting read 🙂 xo
Char | http://www.charslittleblog.co.uk
Hi Jodie! Yes is a big relief and a good idea to take a break from it. Experiences like your’s a resonating with mine too.
Twice in the past I have closed my account for a week or slightly over and you do miss it slightly at first and ask have you done the right thing!
I totally deleted my art page and slightly regret now. Nearly two weeks ago.
Best of luck