I Quit Facebook

Yesterday I deleted my Facebook account.


I didn't think it would create as much stir as it has.   Within hours my sister had text'd me asking why I had deleted her.  

This morning, my mother.  

This afternoon, a friend.


Each of the conversations was remarkably similar.   After I explained I had deactivated my account all three asked me the same question.

"Why?"

I'll admit, the actual act of deactivating was an impulse.  But last night as I was yearning for Facebook much like I imagine a junkie yearns for their fix, I realized... I have a problem.

I won't say that Facebook itself is a problem.   But Social Media in general.  I look at all the posts and images others post out into the world and compare my dingy apartment to their spacious loft on the beach.   I compare my car to someone else's Tesla that has auto pilot.   I compare myself to everyone.

Now, that's not to say that I also haven't benefited from social media.  When I was in a multi-level marketing company, my business was practically run via Facebook.  Facebook essentially paid my bills.

But now?   I find myself rolling my eyes at people's posts and innermost thoughts.  I realize others are doing the same to my posts.   We know too much about the people we follow -- while simultaneously knowing nothing.

My posts were predominately light.  I am was ditzy and bubbly and in most instances, ridiculous.  That's what I wanted to put out into the world.  Because if no one took me seriously they would probably just overlook me and I could continue on in my little world of sunshine and daisies.

I enjoyed the interaction from Facebook. However, do any of these people REALLY know me?  No.   they don't.   Facebook has allowed my hermit tendencies to take over while somehow maintaining the illusion that I am connected to others in a way I've never been before.  

But I digress.    That's not the main reason I deleted my Facebook.

The main reason is:   I waste so much time.  

First thing in the morning?  Facebook.   Bathroom breaks at work?  Facebook.   Home in the evening?  Facebook.  Out with a Punk doing fun things?  Let's make sure Facebook knows about that.

Just last night I did more than I did all last week -- thanks in no small part to Facebook not being a part of the equation.

I need the break.   I need to reevaluate.  I need to regroup.  I need to reorganize.  I need to refocus.  I need to center myself and realize that I'm pretty dang lucky.

I'm lucky because I have a roof over my head.   My kitchen is always stocked.   My car is relatively new and runs better than the old one.  I have some amazing nieces who like to hang out with me.  I have things that others' don't and I can't see the forest for the trees.  

I deleted my Facebook to enrich my life.   Instead of posting daily Thankfulness posts this November,  I got rid of Facebook and I'm going to actually look withing my life for the things that make it full.  Things that bring me joy.   Things that make me happy.  Things that make me thankful.  

And Facebook isn't one of those things currently.


If you're looking to follow me on this experiment, I still have my Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube accounts active.  For now.

Until next time!

SS