Every May, I take a month-long break from social media. Every year after the 30-day mark, I realize I don't miss it, and in fact, I’m a better person without it. Each time I have the same feeling: freedom and peace. What eventually calls me back is the necessity to use social media for marketing purposes. That's a subject for another day.
This year, I excitedly began my Media-Free May and shared this decision with various groups - from followers and clients, to my yoga students, program attendees, and friends and family. By involving more people, I noticed a growing curiosity with many of them acknowledging their addiction to social media and technology in general, but not feeling ready or capable of disconnecting.
About a week into my social media break, a client aware of my plans gifted me the book "Digital Minimalism" by Cal Newport. Initially, I was too busy to delve into it. Busy being out in the world in full presence. Busy spending the last days with my son who I knew was moving out at the end of the month. Busy enjoying my precious time on this planet by having my head up, gaze outward, and being fully aware of all the beauty surrounding me.
However, one evening as I unwound for bed, I picked up the book and was immediately drawn in by its unique insights on disconnecting not just from social media but from technology as a whole. The questions posed about reintroducing technology post-detox made me pause and reflect. This is the piece that caught my attention.
One critical question stood out: "Does this technology directly support something that I deeply value?"
Not does it offer some value.
Not sometimes.
Not did it in the past.
Does this app or technology support what I deeply value right now? . . .
What this present-day version of me values?
Cal does a wonderful job explaining the concept of digital minimalism and its importance in our noisy world. He explains how we blindly, and at times unwillingly, found ourselves in this situation and offers practical solutions to address it.
For me personally, taking a step back from my phone and all digital devices, I recognized several benefits that echoed Newport's book:
- Immediate increased presence and mindfulness
- Stronger personal connections with others and the world around me
- More eye contact (highlighting the noticeable absence that I was accustomed to)
- Enhanced mental clarity
- Rediscovered passions and hobbies! (loved this surprise bonus)
- Reduced stress
- Improved creativity and productivity
- Renewed focus on personal growth and well-being
- An even deeper awareness of everyone's addiction to screens
- Books. Three books, and so much beautiful journaling!
- I owned my days again
These past few weeks, I've found myself questioning the time I may have lost by being engrossed in my phone rather than fully engaging as a parent. Eighteen years have flown by in the blink of an eye. Looking back, I'm grateful I didn’t have a smartphone when my son was born. Not because they weren’t available, but because I hadn’t succumbed yet. It wasn't until several years later that I delved into the world of technology. Then, even more time passed before I gave in to the lure of social media for a work project, and the madness began.
Taking a step back from digital devices allowed me to appreciate the simplicity of life and foster genuine human connections.
The 30 days not only helped me rediscover myself but also prompted a deep reevaluation of what truly matters to me. This experience highlighted the importance of intentional disconnection and the rewards of living authentically in the present moment. It was different than my previous years because half way in, I already knew I wasn’t going back.
I’ve made the decision not to reinstall the apps on my phone and have forever altered my interaction with technology, from social media to streaming services, and beyond. Thanks to everyone who joined in and explored this journey for themselves. Even if you didn't maintain the practice, taking that initial step towards recognizing your technology habits could be the most pivotal of all.
So once again my friends, I invite you to consider your own relationship with technology and social media. Is it time to unplug, even temporarily, to reconnect with what truly brings value and meaning to your life? Perhaps by embracing a digital minimalist approach, you may discover a newfound sense of freedom, clarity, and authenticity in a world inundated with constant digital noise.