Social media can be completely draining and while it is a vital part of our rapidly evolving world, becoming overloaded from too much of it can raise our stress levels. You may even find yourself becoming addicted to the constant stream of posts and pictures.
Taking a social media detox can be a great way to reset and recharge.
Here are three tips on how to do it:
Explaining to others
It might be hard for your friends and family to understand your detox goal. Being open and honest with them on how social media is affecting you and how you plan to take a break is vital. Asking if they could call or text you if they need to chat is also important if they usually contact you online. Unfortunately, not everyone may be understanding of your journey, but setting parameters for contact and being truthful about your wishes is well worth any awkwardness.
Turning it off
Here’s the hard part: turning off notifications. A detox is almost impossible if you hear chimes and whistles from friends posting constantly. Take a few minutes out of your day before you officially start the challenge and configure your settings on your phone and favourite social media websites. If you want to take it a step further, put your phone on airplane mode during your workday. Not only does this ease temptation, but it will likely increase your productivity. It’s a win-win, for sure!
Filling the void
You’ve told your family and friends, and you’ve turned off all notifications. So, now what? This is the perfect time to work on mindset and mental health strategies. For developing a positive mindset, you can read an inspiring book or write out a few daily affirmations. Work on a skill you’ve always wanted to learn like speaking another language or learning how to sew. These examples not only help to calm down the temptation to start surfing your phone again but also develop you further as a person.
A social media detox can be extremely helpful if you are starting to suffer from an overabundance of stress or even an addiction to these favourite platforms. Challenge yourself for a month to take a break and simply learn how to relax again. It might just be the change you have been looking for.
