Or… How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Get A Life Again!
Social media has changed how we interact and communicate with each other, and radically so. Whatever social media platform(s) you operate on -m whether it be Facebook, TikTok, Twitter/X, or Instagram – the dynamics of person-to-person contact has been altered irrevocably in the last two decades, both for better and for worse!
The Human Factor
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, we relied on actual physical contact, face-to-face conversations, connective human relationships, and while that tradition continues indefinitely (and thankfully!), nonetheless the arrival of online social media has introduced an entirely new dynamic to the equation.
On the one hand, social media has made the world an altogether smaller place, unrestricted as it is by geolocation and the limitations of so-called ‘snail mail’. You can literally message and talk to someone on the other side of the world instantaneously. It literally has brought and kept people together, strengthening bonds and creating countless new relationships that have lasted and endured.
On the other hand, social media has brought with it unforeseen problems in its wake that did not exist to the same extent previously. Online trolling, the coarsening of public debate, the proliferation of criminality in the so-called ‘dark web’, the newfound infrastructure and promotion of terrorism, and a breakdown in cultural/social norms as the toxic culture war has spread worldwide through the internet and social media.
Addictive Personalities
Instagram has become a prominent feature of social media usage, with 1.3 billion active users on its platform, sharing photos and videos and messages. And while that is far from a bad thing in itself, recent studies have shown a worrying trend in addictive and even obsessive behavior developing in some users, with 70% of Instagram-using teens questioned in the U.S. admitting to addiction, with 60% of men and 55% of women questioned admitting likewise.
For this article, we will list 3 good and pertinent reasons why deleting your Instagram account is a positive thing that will ultimately enhance your life and free you from the social media shackles.
1. Productivity
So much time is wasted on Instagram scrolling through photos, videos, and messages that actual work productivity can and indeed is greatly affected. Many Instagram users have admitted to procrastinating in work responsibilities to ‘surf’ Instagram, leading to many hours of lost productivity.
By deleting your Instagram account, you can regain focus, attention, and a solid work ethic once again without undue distraction, regaining a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence in yourself.
2. Validation
One of the most persistent and insidious side effects of social media is the need for validation and approval from fellow users. Without realizing it, many people have found themselves craving that nod of affirmation.
Don’t continue to do this to yourself, you’re better and worth more than that. Delete that Instagram account and never worry about how others may perceive you. Be yourself and be proud of it.
3. Sleep
One of the most prominent symptoms with social media addiction is sleep disturbance, the inability to drop off and even when you do, finding yourself still fatigued when you waken. Our bodies need time to wind down, relax, and prepare for sleep, but using Instagram immediately prior to sleep messes with our melatonin levels, prevents physical and psychological relaxation, and thus a disturbed and shallow sleep.
Scrub that Instagram account, have relaxing down-time prior to sleep, unencumbered by the distraction of social media… and find yourself sleeping like a baby, waking to a restful, refreshed, and rejuvenated state… ready to start a new day with a clear mind and a fresh perspective.
Conclusion
As stated previously, Instagram (and social media in general) can be a fun and positive service… but don’t let that service become your master! Delete your account, reboot and reclaim your life… with improved moods, increased productivity, and consistent restful sleep, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
And your mind and body will thank you for it.
