Notes From My Social Media Detox

While I was off social media for the month of June, I wanted to treat it like a science experiment so I kept close watch of my behaviors and took notes on the thoughts that floated to the surface. Using myself as a test subject is probably one of my favorite things in the world because it gives me insight, not just into me, but potentially into others - which makes me feel less alone and then gives me ways to connect with people so they feel less alone. I’ve screenshot the notes I took on my notepad so you can get a little glimpse into my mind and the things that floated to the surface once I removed social media as a distraction:

And then I started writing in the newsletter - because I couldn’t take it anymore. Essentially, here’s what I took away from this science experiment:

I use social media to distract from dealing with grief.
It’s easy to be off social media when you are busy, but not when you aren’t.
The social media Gods have created a fantastic system for addiction and false validation.
I like being able to stream of consciousness share my thoughts (which this space will now allow!)
I don’t need social media to feel valued or relevant.
I’m not missing what I’m not seeing.
Our brains and bodies can’t handle the copious amounts of information we feed them daily due to the ease of social media.
I desire becoming the person that lives in a magical space that gets known simply because of her integrity and folks sending people my way because “You need Teri in your life” instead of pushing to be noticed in a sea of other folks.
I will do this again - definitely.