Two Week Social Media Break: What I Learned

Last week, I returned home to England after spending two weeks travelling in Thailand. Before I left, I had every intention to update my social media with Instagram photos throughout the trip. In the end, I didn’t, and it felt amazing. I even bought a Thai SIM card whilst I was there, so I could use my phone as ‘normal’ – without struggling to find wifi. I recently took an unintentional two week break from social media, and I thought I’d share with you what I learned in that time…

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What Was It Like?

Two weeks isn’t a long time, I know, but nowadays, two minutes away from social media is a struggle for some people. I had full access to my social media accounts for almost the whole time I was away, but I chose not to post, and I didn’t feel guilty about it! Even typing that sounds crazy…

When I’m at home, I feel as though I should be posting online all the time. I often feel guilty when I don’t. Whether that’s going a few days without tweeting, or even a few weeks without posting a photo on Instagram. I’ve done this before, and I’ve always felt bad for it. But why?

When it comes to blogging and social media, it’s easy to feel as though you have to constantly post. This could be so that your followers don’t get bored, or even forget about you! For me, this is where that feeling of guilt often comes from, and it’s not healthy.

Being away without using social media taught me that the world doesn’t stop spinning because you’re not updating 24/7. Sure, I lost a few followers on Instagram whilst I was travelling, but that shouldn’t be a main concern. It’s okay to take a break, whether it’s intentional or not.

You owe it to yourself to take a step back from the crazy, online world, and take some time for yourself. At the end of the day, those who care about you will still be there to support you when you return. If they’re not, were they ever supporting you in the first place? This taught me about the online friendships I’ve made, and those I really care about.

Would I Do It Again?

A break? Yes. For the same length of time? Probably not. I found this break easy whilst travelling, as I was in a different country, constantly had people around me, and activities to keep me occupied. I think it’d be quite different if I were to try the same break at home, as I imagine I’d find it a lot more difficult and tempting. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll try it? For right now, I’m appreciative of the time I had in Thailand, and the time I didn’t spend on social media.

Even though I’m now back online, I’m more aware of the time I spend online. I’d still like to take little breaks now and then, but I certainly couldn’t imagine my life without the world of social media. I’ve made so many genuine friendships through being online, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ll take time off when I feel overwhelmed, but I can’t say I’d ever give up social media for good. I enjoy it too much!

I’ve learned a lot since starting my blog, and this two week social media break certainly adds to that. It’s really opened my eyes to how much time we spend online…

Have you ever taken a break from social media? How did you find it?