Practising Social (Media) Distancing

One measure to prevent contracting the mental virus of dogma.

In recent years, especially when I became a freelancer, my interest in having a healthy relationship with social media grew. One way I did that was by periodically disconnecting from the virtual world of likes and comments.

Perhaps the first time I ever practised 'Social Media Distancing', it wasn't intentional, it was the beginning of 2015 and I had just destroyed my phone while on holiday. It shook me a bit at first knowing I wouldn't be able to talk to my friends or see what their up to but then as the days turned into weeks I grew comfortable with living life without a phone and before you know it I had survived a year without one.

In today's interconnected world, social media has become a ubiquitous part of our lives. As a freelancer, I've realised the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with social media, not only for personal well-being but also for professional growth. The concept of 'Social Media Distancing' has significantly impacted my life, allowing me to prevent the mental virus of dogma and find a sustainable approach to using these platforms.

Benefits of Social Media Distancing

1. Mental Well-being: Research has shown that taking breaks from social media can benefit mental health. It allows individuals to reduce the negative impact of constant comparison and information overload.

2. Time for Other Activities: Disconnecting from social media creates opportunities to engage in activities that promote personal growth, such as learning new skills, exercising, or spending quality time with friends and family.

3. Professional Focus: For freelancers, managing social media use is crucial for maintaining a balance between self-promotion and productivity. It can help in avoiding the trap of endless scrolling and comparing oneself to others.

Practical Ways to Use Social Media Sustainably

1. Set Boundaries: Establish specific times for engaging with social media and stick to them. This can prevent mindless scrolling and ensure that it doesn't encroach on valuable work or personal time.

2. Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that inspire and motivate you. Unfollow or mute accounts that create a sense of inadequacy or negativity.

3. Alternative Activities: When the urge to visit social media sites arises, consider alternative activities such as reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or learning something new.

4. Book Recommendations: As a freelancer, I've found that reading books related to my industry not only provides valuable knowledge but also serves as a welcome break from the digital world.

By adopting these practices, I've been able to harness the positive aspects of social media while mitigating its potential negative effects. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, finding a sustainable approach to social media use is essential for personal and professional well-being.