There’s no denying that social media can be a powerful tool. As a media student, it was my window to the industry, a platform to showcase my work, and a way to connect with like-minded individuals. But somewhere along the line, the constant scrolling and need for validation morphed into an unhealthy addiction. My real life started feeling like a pale imitation of the curated online world.
It began subtly. Checking Instagram “just once” before bed turned into late-night rabbit holes of comparison and envy. Deadlines started looming larger, with the allure of the perfect Instagram story proving far too strong. My sleep suffered, and the quality of my work started to decline.
The turning point came when I missed a crucial class presentation because I was glued to a viral video. Shame and frustration washed over me. I realized I was letting the desire for social media validation overshadow my academic goals and overall well-being.
Breaking free wasn’t easy. It involved a serious digital detox. I deleted social media apps from my phone, allowing myself access only on my computer, and that too, at specific times. It felt strange at first, like a phantom phone vibration in my pocket.
But gradually, the real world started to come back into focus. I rediscovered the joy of getting lost in a good book, the thrill of an in-depth conversation with a friend, and the simple pleasure of going for a walk without feeling the urge to document it.
This detox also allowed me to rekindle my passion for storytelling. I found myself reading more scripts, attending workshops, and actively engaging with real-life projects. My creativity blossomed when it wasn’t constantly seeking external validation.
However, this isn’t a story about abandoning social media completely. Instead, it’s about finding a healthier balance. I re-downloaded the apps, but this time with stricter limits. I unfollowed accounts that triggered negativity and curated a feed that inspired me. More importantly, I prioritized my well-being and academic goals.
My journey taught me a valuable lesson: social media is a tool, not a compass. It can be a fantastic platform to showcase your work and connect with others, but it shouldn’t dictate your self-worth or define your success.
If you find yourself battling social media addiction, know this – you’re not alone. There’s a whole world waiting to be explored beyond the like button. Take a step back, prioritize your mental health and creativity, and reclaim your life from the endless scroll. The real world is where your story unfolds, and it’s far more captivating than any carefully curated online persona.
Leave a Reply