A Break from the Scroll - no facebook and instagram

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 Embarking on a fast from Facebook and Instagram was an eye-opening experience, revealing insights about digital habits, social engagement, and personal discipline. I have done it before and each time is so different...Here are some key takeaways from my break this time:

The LinkedIn Landscape

One of the first observations was the stark difference in engagement on LinkedIn compared to Facebook and Instagram. While the topics discussed on LinkedIn occasionally overlap with those on other platforms, the depth and justification of opinions often vary significantly. LinkedIn's professional environment allows for a different type of dialogue focused on career achievements and industry insights. Marketing one's work is prevalent, but the platform lacks the constant temptation to purchase products that are present on Instagram and Facebook.

Breaking the Habit

The initial days of the fast were the most challenging. It took about 2-3 days for my hand to stop instinctively reaching for the Facebook tab. I uninstalled the app on my phone to remove the temptation entirely. This experience underscored the power of habit and how deeply ingrained our digital routines can be. Despite this, the physical act of breaking the habit felt like a significant achievement, a testament to the strength of intentional behaviour modification.

Feeling More Relaxed

One of the most noticeable benefits of the fast has been a greater sense of relaxation. Without constant updates and comparisons, I’ve felt less pressure to measure my life against others. This newfound peace of mind has been refreshing and has allowed me to focus more on my own well-being without the distraction of social media.

Craving Connection

Despite these positives, I have found myself craving a way to share moments and updates with friends in a more accessible manner. While I appreciated the reduced temptation to compare, I miss the ease of posting on social media and having friends see what is new without sending individual messages. This has made me realize how integrated social media is in our lives for sharing personal milestones and staying connected.

Forgetting Birthdays

Another challenge has been remembering birthdays. Social media reminders made it easy to keep track of special dates, and without them, I noticed a few birthdays slipping through the cracks. This has been a practical reminder of how digital tools play a role in our daily routines and the need to find alternative ways to stay organized and connected.


In conclusion, while I have enjoyed the peace and quiet away from the social media circus, it became clear I am not quite ready to give up my digital stage entirely. 

After all, who doesn’t love a good audience for life’s little dramas and triumphs? Plus, the thought of sending personal birthday messages to everyone is exhausting—I might need a cheat sheet for that!

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