Recently I decided to cut back on the time I spent on Instagram. Now, I’m only allowed to use it if I’m doing something blog related, like posting about new articles or responding to your lovely comments. Reducing my usage so much has been really eye-opening.
1. I am addicted to the dopamine
It amazes me how often I reach for my phone during the day. Pretty much anytime I’m bored or want a distraction, I reach for it. Then, when I remember I can’t use Instagram, I realise there’s actually no reason to be lokoking. Clearly I have a really ingrained habit of going straight for that dopamine hit multiple times a day.
It’s a little bit embarrassing to admit, because I thought I was pretty good with socials. But clearly I am pretty plugged into the app. Taking a step back has been really good to re-adjust and try to find either comfort with moments of boredom, or entertainment in more meaningful activities.
2. Going without really does give you brain space
I wouldn’t say only looking at Instagram once or twice a week has drastically changed my life. But it has given me a bit of space. In that space, I’m more present for my husband, I read more books and I definitely do a bit more blog work.
Even though I didn’t see myself as a very heavy user of social media (I only have Insta), it has been eye-opening how much time I sink into this app. And it doesn’t even build my creativity! In fact, I now have more ideas to write about, or about how to complete house renovations. Rather than copying what someone else is doing, I’m coming up with things on my own.
It’s been nice to feel my brain slowly expanding, even if it’s just a little bit.
3. It makes me re-think Instagram altogether
Could I just drop it altogether? I’d actually really like to. I don’t really need it. In general, it’s a waste of time where I compare myself to the highly curated image of other people.
That said, I do use it for the blog. It’s a great way to let you know when new articles are out, and to build new connections. I also have some friends and family who are easier to contact there than in other spaces. The genius of these apps is that they are carefully calibrated to reward more usage and work on your FOMO.
Keeping it for just blog work, which is what I do now, could be the answer. It helps me work on this enjoyable hobby, without getting totally sucked in. But perhaps it’s time for me to drop my private account and enjoy this extra brain space.
