Your Guide to a Social Media Free Week

Learn How You Can Do a Social Media Reset Right Now!

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are spending more time on our devices than ever before. From remote work to Zoom calls with loved ones, our devices are never far from reach. While tech can keep us connected, it can also become addictive. It might not be possible right now to nix tech altogether, but if you find yourself craving a break from social media, we’ve got a quick guide on how to take a one-week social media reset.

If you’re finding yourself mindlessly scrolling through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc., for hours each day, it might be time for a social media free week. As we ramp up to another election and news headlines continue to be triggering, taking a break from social media can be beneficial for mental health. Here’s how to make the most of it and quell any temptations to get back on social media for a full seven days:

Reflect on your habits.

Evaluate how social media makes you feel and how it impacts your life, including your mental wellness, productivity and creativity.

Ask yourself if social media is taking time away from the activities that make you happy.

Focus on the positives of taking time away from social media.

Delete the apps from your devices. This will remove the immediate temptation to log in quickly or check your social media profiles. Remind yourself apps can easily be reinstalled. Experiment by seeing what thoughts or feeling arise by not being on social media.

Talk to loved ones for support. If you’re really worried about not being in touch for a week, tell people you’re taking a break. You can also ask your nearest and dearest how they feel about your social media usage.

Give your phone a curfew. Set a time each night when your devices “go to sleep.” Consider moving your charging station from your bedside to a place that is out of arm’s reach. Without easy access, the less likely you are to be on your phone until the wee hours of the morning.

Remember your time is valuable and irreplaceable. Nobody wants to get to the end of their life and regret how much time they spent scrolling on a screen. Use your extra free time to get moving, take that class, make a healthy meal, connect with loved ones, or focus on self-care. Your time and attention are irreplaceable, so use it wisely!

Sources:

“Here’s How to Do a Social Media Detox the Right Way,” Andrea Chantim, goodhousekeeping.com, Jan. 31, 2020.

“How to Take a Social Media Detox to Improve Your Mental Health,” Amber Murphy, declutterthemind.com, Feb. 19, 2020.