We all are guilty of social media addiction. A lot of people run their businesses based on internet just to justify spending so much time on it (okay, maybe not just for that purpose but still… you get my point).
But there are times when you might start to see signs you need to take a break from social media.
As fun as social media and the internet is, we all know within our own hearts what is healthy for us and when we may be getting a little too deep into the online world.
If you’re interested in taking a break from social media for a month, a week, or even just a day, here are some helpful signs that it might be a good decision for you!
1. You check your phone first thing in the morning, and anytime you wake during the night
Of course, we want to check our phones of a morning to see what’s been happening while we’ve slept, and when you’re addicted to social media that want becomes a bit more of a need. But if you reach for your phone the moment your eyes open, before you even register to the time of day then we may have an issue.
If you check your phone during the night at anytime you wake, then you definitely need to be taking a break. Give yourself some distance… like a super clingy relationship.
2. You have a brand new phone and the battery still only lasts half the day
Brand new phones are supposed to have a fantastic battery life, like they really should last the whole day. But if you have a new phone and it’s still only lasting half the day because of your addiction to watching and sharing cat videos on Facebook, then you probably have to rethink your relationship with social media.
Next level is if you’ve bought a portable battery pack just so you can get your social media fix for the day… yikes!
3. You know everything that’s happening in someone’s life even though you haven’t spoken to them in years
Have you ever caught up with someone you haven’t seen in years and then realise you still know the name of their new husband and newborn child because you stalk see their social media updates.
Of course, it’s normal to know a bit about the people you’re friends with on social media, but this is normally balanced with real life catch ups and talking with these people as well.
If you’re finding you only know everything about other people because you see it on social media, then perhaps you should take a break.
4. You go to the toilet just so you can check your phone without being judged
I have to admit, there have been times I’ve gone to the toilet just to get a few minutes away from the toddler, and I may or may not have posted a status update or two while in there. But if you find yourself avoiding social situations and making excuses to go to the toilet just so can check the latest Instagram posts that’s a totally different level.
Sure, lock yourself in the toilet for some peace and quiet, just don’t avoid real life conversations to keep up with your social media ones.
5. People don’t actually recognise you in real life because you don’t look anything like your profile picture
FaceTune much? I get it, I’m not going to be posting the scariest pictures of myself, and I take about 10 different shots so I can decide which one looks best. I mean, who doesn’t? By all means, go ahead and photoshop or FaceTune or apply whatever filter you want. Show your best side! That’s the wonder of social media. But make sure you see people enough in real life that they still know what you really look like.
6. You start to get separation anxiety from your phone
Can you make a quick trip to the shops without your phone and not have a complete panic attack? I totally understand the need to have our phones on us most of the time, especially when we are out of the house. We are a society that is always connected and always contactable.
But how does the thought of not having your phone make you feel?
What about going somewhere where there is no reception for a few days? Sound relaxing or is the thought of it enough to send you into a full-scale meltdown?