In the beginning, I didn’t think living offline was possible. Social media was everywhere, and it felt like everyone was online. Facebook, especially, was marketed as a platform to connect and give people a voice. But over time, I began to see a shift – more ads, more political posts, and less of the organic content I once enjoyed. I couldn’t help but feel disconnected from the original purpose of these platforms. So, I got off Facebook and gave Instagram a try.
At first, I liked it better, but soon the same thing happened – ads started taking over. But I didn’t stop using Instagram because there are things I like there. I decided to limit my usage and focus on staying connected with my close friends. I’m not posting stuff as much, I check it once or twice a day to see if I have a message from my friends. But is it time to get off it too?
At that point, I began to wonder: what if I just disconnected entirely? Would my life really change? What would I gain?
- Deeper Connection – every time I would think about something to share with the people I love, instead of posting on social media, I would call them, visit them, or send a message directly. It felt more genuine. No scrolling, no waiting for likes – just a meaningful conversation or a heartfelt gesture. Maybe I would send them a message but I wouldn’t open my Instagram to send them a reel or a funny picture I saw somewhere. And then, twenty minutes later I wouldn’t find myself doom-scrolling and feeling restless or sad because I’m not on a deserted island drinking cocktails.
- Productivity – instead of being online, I would have more time for being productive. Imagine reading a book or going for a walk, or writing. It would definitely be more organized and motivated for doing things that are better for me and for my mental health.
- Mental Health – for me, constant exposure to social media can negatively impact my mental health. When I see others living a life I envy – traveling, having fun, buying things – I can easily start to feel inadequate, sad, or unmotivated. It’s easy to forget that what’s shared online is often curated and not the full picture. That’s why I’ve chosen to focus more on my own life and what makes me happy, rather than comparing myself to others. While social media may have negative effects for some, it can also be a valuable tool for others, depending on how it’s used. My personal opinion is that when you constantly watch others in places you want to visit, or having fun, going out, buying expensive things no one needs – you will feel bad, sad and unmotivated. Who needs that in their life? Imagine instead being present in your life just the way it is and being happy. Working on your mental and physical state to be better for yourself and everyone around you.
- Setting an Example – with being offline I would definitely set an example for my child. Me being offline would show her that being online is not something necessary. Showing her that leading an offline life can be much more rewarding than constantly having your cellphone in your hands. Because ultimately, that is what I want. For my child to have a chance at an offline world. For her to express herself without the need to be seen or heard online. I want her to have a childhood just the way I had. Offline, present and happy.
- Living in the Moment – once you get free of the need to capture every moment, you can really start to be free of social media. When I’m at a concert, I make an effort to just be there and enjoy the experience. I don’t want to be distracted by my phone or feel like I need to capture every moment. Ok, sure, there is nothing wrong if you want to take a picture, or maybe a video of some song, or the atmosphere. But don’t let the FOMO rule your life. There is no one but you and people around you that matters.
So those are only five of my personal reasons to get offline. It’s not the same for you or somebody else. But please, just take half an hour to think through your life in a digital environment. And after that try to picture your life without it. Your social media won’t go anywhere. First time I started to think about life without it was after a one month “No Instagram Challenge”. You know what happened after that one month? Absolutely nothing. And I have Cal Newport to thank for that. And my husband.
In today’s world try and leave the fear of missing out far away from your everyday experiences. Nothing bad will happen if you stay disconnected from everyone once in a while. It is healthy to be alone with your own thoughts and it’s ok to embrace boredom. Try it and maybe you will see that the world still goes round even if you don’t post it on social media. If it’s not for you – that’s ok. I’m only writing about my experiences and ways my life got better.
I challenge you to try a “Digital Detox” for a week. See how it affects your mood, productivity, and mental health. Afterward, reflect on how you feel – does it bring you more peace? Or do you feel the pull to reconnect? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. I simply think that humans are not wired to be constantly online and we have to value productivity more than connectivity.
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