Almost a month ago I made the decision to deactivate my Instagram. It was something I have been wanting to do for a while now, but it wasn’t until recent hardships, that I felt compelled to take this action.
Being off Instagram has made me realize how much time I actually spend on social media daily. I usually spent countless hours being on Instagram but now I have found myself with a good amount of time to spare. At first I didn’t know what to do with all that extra time on my hands. However, I found far more better things to invest my time in, like studying and reviewing my school work, or cooking dinner with my mother everyday. (which I am very proud of because I have gotten to learn some family recipes that I plan on using later in life.)
Another thing leaving instagram has helped me do is focus on myself. It wasn’t until now that I realize how much Instagram was affecting my confidence. Now that I am not posting my outfits on social media, I have been able to wear some that I would have never worn before, I know it sounds weird but it’s true. I used to post my fit/makeup on Instagram every day. Now that I am not forcing myself to do that I find myself wanting to change my style since I don’t need to impress anyone.
That’s the thing with social media without realizing it, people start comparing themselves to the unreachable standards that are being placed on you. That is something that I have continuously found myself struggling with this past year. The more time I spent on Instagram the more I started devaluing myself. Being able to just shut off all these assumptions has helped me in ways I never could have imagined.
Leaving Instagram has allowed me to let go of some stress. Truthfully before I left Instagram I was feeling forced to post. The reason is because a lot of my family that lives in Mexico relies on instagram to communicate with me. However, now that Instagram is not an essential part of my life, I don’t feel pressured to post. Not to mention I get to stay away from some of the unnecessary drama that family brings.
Although, leaving Instagram has had a positive impact in my life… I am planning on going back on in a couple of days. Why? Because Instagram has plenty of benefits. However, when I start to get overwhelmed by social media all over again, I now know that taking a break isn't so bad.