5 years of no social media
It was in October-November of 2020 that I decided to quit social media. I was an active user back then - bunch of stories everyday, a new post every once in a while, comments, tagging, and all of what was usual at that time.
Why I quit
There was enough content on the internet warning about the dangers of social media and I was always aware of it. I was spending hours circling through the apps and it was clear that I was an addict. I quit it all after watching The Social Dilemma on Netflix.
Downsides
There are very obvious downsides like not being up to date with what my friends are doing on a daily basis and staying connected with older friends or acquaintances. I do not understand memes which are trending. It is also harder to grow a personal brand (which is very important). But I find that this is a trade-off I am okay with considering the long term benefits.
How does it feel?
Honestly, I'm very proud. I feel like people have problems that are non-existent for me. I feel normal. The analogy I like is that of a diet. I feel healthy because I am conscious of what I consume.
Information diet
I am intentionally oblivious to events happening in the world. When I was an active user, I used to always see content or news that would either enrage or upset me. Daily news is not important news. If something is important enough, I would hear it from friends or family.
There are no radical or ideological thoughts. I am not a victim of any PR or propaganda. There is no echo chamber to participate in. There is no junk, there is no judgement. No doomscrolling or brain rot. My thoughts, my identity, taste and interests are not shaped by the algorithm.
Following an information diet is one of the most important things I have done in my life.