one year off social media, an update

Social Media was at one point an essential part of my life, so quitting was something I never imagined I'd do. However, about more than year ago I decided to delete most of my social platforms for the sake of my sanity lol. Although the process has come with its fair share of ups and down, I wouldn't have changed a thing.
Hopefully this video helps you out a if youre looking to do the same, all the best!! Love ya
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Intro
0:19 Addressing Things
0:55 More Intro
1:07 Cons
7:26 Pros
14:30 FAQ
19:00 Outro

[@MichelleGia]

helloo my people

[@user-hf1wu8hb7l]

Scrap booking is a great way to be able to keep ur photos in one place that's not social media AND be able to look back on it when ever u want🥰 I use to do it all the time as a kid no gotta get back into it!😊 And we love u too!

[@brago1997]

are you still off social media?

[@MdtorikulIslam-zj1dv]

Xxxxxxxxxx vides

[@FacelessM]

There's a specific feeling of peace and tranquility when you're off the social media. I remember how I always had a sense of urgency, but there was nothing urgent going on - I was just stuck in a constant loop of a need to be connected for some reason. I guess that it's a subconscious fear of missing out on something, but usually the paradox is that the more you are on social media, the more you miss out from real life.

[@MichelleGia]

i love this comment so much! it's so true, and you don't really notice how big of an impact it can have on you until you're off for some time. It definitely is a lovely feeling when you're not constantly on edge all the time:)

[@incognito__00]

THIS

[@ellareei]

@@MichelleGia trueee

[@loveyouJesus-vw7zl]

agree

[@angieramirez8223]

@@MichelleGia 😊

[@ishadas1965]

I've been off of social media for 3 months and I feel so much at peace now. Not going back to it anytime soon.

[@MichelleGia]

Love this for you❤️❤️

[@user-ph5vs5pd5j]

But whatsapp and youtube stll using? or you quit all ?

[@ishadas1965]

@@user-ph5vs5pd5j i do have WhatsApp to connect with my parents and a few close friends. And i use youtube too. But it depends on how you use it. I use it to play background music while i work and study, and watch videos like Michelle's and other educational videos like TedEd's. But really, if you open KZbin and keep on scrolling down the shorts, now that's a problem. Must be mindful of what you're using social media for.

[@user-ph5vs5pd5j]

@@ishadas1965 ye u are right:) yt and whatsapp is enough. The rest is rly rly bad like tik tok....

[@tejasvpanchal4407]

​@@ishadas1965 you can turn off shorts , KZbin is kinda double edged sword

[@20twelvevolution]

I agree that KZbin is very different than other social media. It has a purpose outside of being "social". It's more of a tool.

[@JeraltofRivia]

Cope

[@randomnumbers84269]

Yeah, but it also comes down to how you use it. You can use Reddit, instagram or Twitter like that as well, albeit I think it would be harder especially with the latter two because they focus on the short form content so much, while YT has long form content as well.

[@mazapandust]

tiktok is great if you use it only as a search engine. i logged out of my account and just use the desktop version as a guest to search for specific things (like food recipes, places to see while traveling, etc.)

[@espenbrathen7156]

@@JeraltofRivia It's not cope tho. I have learned a lot from youtube, while twitter and insta just makes my head hurt

[@sunshineleon6464]

I was an extremely online person until a year and a half ago when I quit social media cold turkey (other than KZbin). It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s so freeing knowing that no one knows where you are or what you’re doing or who you’re with. You stop doing things to impress others and start doing things to impress yourself. And you have SO much time! I used to feel like I didn’t have enough time to do anything, but now I have hours every day where I can just do whatever I want because I’m not sucked into the internet. Highly recommend.

[@iloveme4life]

Yesss like it's so worth it

[@cutiesos]

I feel the exact same. This whole year I have been obsessed with posting EVERYTHING to my story and over sharing and recently I just decided that it was too much and so I deleted everything except KZbin. It’s so much nicer just being the only one knowing what’s going on with me, it’s soo much less stressful and I really love feeling more free.

[@kyarataylor1150]

Worded this perfectly

[@LemonAdeYesPlease]

Is watching youtube 5hrs a day considered lot of social media

[@cutiesos]

@@LemonAdeYesPlease yea sort of, that is kind of a lot since there’s only around 12 hours in a day and that’s almost half of it.

[@JTMONEY714]

I've deactivated my social media back in December of 2021 and the amount of peace, being more present, and not comparing myself to anyone anymore is very freeing!

[@nineteenninetyeight]

Omg same, also since dec 2021!

[@gladiolusflower8]

I once heard “Our minds are not prepared to receive all this amount of news” scene that time I knew that I’m not a social media person, the amount of peace I felt after deleting all my accounts is undescribed!!❤️

[@betycestuje]

i like this

[@MichelleGia]

i agree with that wholeheartedly, so happy you were able to find peace:)

[@Rina47429]

Ignorance is a bliss

[@zerihunsisay07]

Wonderful!!

[@bj0urne]

KZbin is not the same as TikTok. KZbin is way more like "TV" were videos are long and sincere, not just scroll content. I reflect all day of some videos I see on KZbin. TikTok is just a digital drug.

[@juandiaz5959]

And in a very curious way, youtube shorts seems to be somehow poorly made. Their algorithm is not as engaging and satisfying as instagram reels or tiktok's algorithm. This makes it, even having a scrolling section and fast content, boring and not as enjoyable to use as long videos and content that requires more attention.

[@aditiiip]

I quit instagram way back in 2019. Like you said, it hasn't been easy to navigate life without social media especially in my 20s. But the mental clarity and the genuine love and support you receive from people who understand you for who you are is truly unmatched. All of this makes quitting social media totally worth it!!

[@MichelleGia]

yes! i agree with you 100%, it's so nice finding people who understand and appreciate the choices you make for the betterment of yourself:) all the best to youu

[@JohnnyDLaw]

the only negative to not being on social media is that everybody else is on it and u start to realize that people actually talk in meme references☠

[@crazycarlitropro2450]

U need to be updated in life social media is the only way to really live tbh

[@aditiiip]

@@crazycarlitropro2450 That's not really true. Instagram reels and tiktoks are not the only source of information in this world, are they?

[@chipichipichapa]

​@@crazycarlitropro2450its not tbh, people used to live before social media just fine and probably better

[@dj_bubbs-TXQ]

It’s been 18 months since I left social media. I have absolutely no regrets at all. I got sick of people gossiping, drama, negativity & people faking their lives & friendships and sharing everything that should be private. A number of things I realised: 1. People who added me as “Friends” didn’t really care about me. They were “So called Friends” 2. When I was going through my hardest times, including anxiety, trauma and stress, Nobody was there for me or reached out to me. 3. Certain posts or videos get blown out of proportion or completely taken out of context even if it’s nothing negative. 4. People lie about the amount of friends they REALLY have. 5. Communication was very one sided. The same person had to make the first move, as the other person doesn’t make an effort themselves. 6. People lie about their lives 7. It makes people fake and insecure. 8. People feel you have to compare yourself to others. 9. Social media has increased loneliness, isolation. Anxiety and depression which can be severe. 10. Having a proper conversation or being real is considered not normal and people think it’s creepy 11. It’s made people to be narcissists & self entitlement & ignorant. 12. Social media was supposed to bring people together, but it’s more negative than a positive and it’s destroying peoples lives I never had TikTok, Twitter or Instagram. Glad I didn’t sign up to any of them. I only use KZbin as I can look at interesting things like cooking recipes and motivation videos and music videos of festivals & concerts and more fun stuff. I enjoy going out in nature, going for walks, bowling listening to music and learning new hobbies. Since leaving it’s been the best decision of my life. I enjoy life more, I enjoy doing the things I do without being judged. I feel more happier.

[@jaysouthmusic8230]

Trust me man you hit it on the head with this comment. Especially with the comparisons that people be making with each others lives which causes depression. Trust me you are not missing out and I’m deleting it off my phone for a year and never installing instagram ever again. People act like life never existed before social media and that’s the scary part to me

[@dj_bubbs-TXQ]

@@jaysouthmusic8230. It’s really sad. I think the scary part is that if social media carries on taking over our lives permanently in a negative way, then life is going to become artificial where nothing is real in person or anywhere else in reality. The other scary part of social media is that, there is no sense of a community, unity and love. It’s all hate and negativity. It’s so depressing. Good luck with quitting instagram, if you do have any other social media platforms, maybe consider getting rid of them. Stay strong and most importantly, focus on yourself. All the best.

[@jaysouthmusic8230]

@@dj_bubbs-TXQ you are so right with every point you just said. That is why I deleted instagram off my phone because of the exact reasons you just said. I'm getting more things done ever since i got it off my phone and I feel so much better mentally and physically but it is sad that as a society that it's heading in that direction

[@Antwannnn]

How old r u 46? Wtfym you've never had TikTok, IG, or Twitter 😭 Facebook doesn't count as social media atp 💀

[@seasonsofus]

The fake friends part is so true! When I had a suicide attempt I told some friends to let them know what was going on and why I was so absent and they barley talked to me! But when one of the “friend’s” brother died, she was upset that people weren’t reaching out and checking up on her as much as she expected. Mind you her friend checked up on her way more than she herself checked up on me! Then a year later another “friend” wanted to talk to me about how she was suicidal like she expected me to be there for her. So selfish and fake!

[@macymae8129]

i've started printing out my camera roll photos just for safe-keeping, like my parents did back in the day when i was growing up. also i recommend using film cameras, even if it is just a basic disposable one-- it makes choosing what I take a photo of more thoughtful

[@MichelleGia]

I looove that!! And I will dedicate try it out, thank you🥰❤️

[@nqobilegumede585]

Wow I love this❤❤❤

[@SimplisticallyDigital]

I started using Fuji Instax instant cameras and printers. Game changer! I print highlight photos and have started scrapbooking and photo albums.

[@lailak482]

Omg thanks that what I’m going to do 💯

[@saltanataldabayeva5010]

I loved my four month break from socials and I was able to connect with my faith, I graduated with a degree, I started smiling to people and humble self down, I did everything I told myself I would while I was on socials 🙏🏻

[@Yesgissie]

Yes!!

[@Sarahxxxxxxx]

Yup. Sometimes I want to share my life now on social media but I realize the only reason I have a life worth sharing is because I don’t spend time wasting away on social media

[@moto3463]

I've been off social media besides KZbin for 3+ months and won't look back. No point following peoples lives who I don't really know or care about. Less drama!

[@MichelleGia]

yess! exactly!

[@MichellePasaribu]

Same. It has been really peaceful (used to be addicted with checking up ig, it's going great so far.)

[@chisomo8088]

Honestly wish I could do this but it'll be so difficult. Everyone around me is constantly on their phone, and I go through phases of not wanting to watch movies or shows, also I find it difficult to read in public spaces at times so I constantly wonder what I'd do with myself (my hands to be more specific) if I couldn't use my phone when I'm out? I see myself getting addicted to mobile games which I know I'm prone to and it isn't any better so honestly don't know if it's sth realistic for me

[@periwinklesky4]

@@chisomo8088 same like what else am I gonna do with my time?? I have no friends. How does one find friends without social media these days??

[@aphreyy]

​@@periwinklesky4go to events or join a club of whatever hobby you're interested in

[@adamg8814]

If you try to fit in with the crowd you’ll only feel more lonely than you did when you wondered what it would be like. Trust me, being a rebellious lone wolf amongst a herd of mindless sheep is the way to live

[@Goddess_Infinity]

Thisssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jadecrystal4205]

I’ve only been officially off social media (instagram and twitter) for 3 months, but I can tell you for a fact that I resonated w everything that you said in this video. I was definitely someone who would spend A LOT of time lurking and just being in other people’s business, and that’s the main reason why I left. I don’t want to be that person anymore. Once you delete social media, you definitely gain a new perspective in life, and I love that. So much more presence, meaningful connections and conversations, genuine friendships, and finding new passions and hobbies. Thank you for this update, Michelle!

[@MichelleGia]

of course girl🥰 congrats on your 3 months, i am so proud of you❤️ and im so happy to hear you're experiencing the positives already:) wishing you all the best on your journey!!

[@Priscilaaamorim]

I am quitting today 🤩

[@jaysouthmusic8230]

This is so true and that is why I’m deleting it off my phone for one whole year and never installing instagram ever again. Big time waster and the comparison thing is no joke, it’s like the main reason why people are leaving social media more than ever

[@drsatyamupadhyay]

I've been off socials for 2 years. Just love it.

[@MichelleGia]

Hehe so happy for you!

[@staceycohorst7132]

Not having an outlet for photos is a big one for me. Now that I don't have social media, I just print my favorites for wall decor or sending them in certain group chats.

[@MichelleGia]

Yes exactly, but that’s a really good idea:) might have to try it out!

[@biasilvaworks]

"people don't care about you" this is so true, we get anxious when it doesn't matter in the end, I don't leave social media, but I haven't used it often in years, on the one hand it's bad, after all when everything is connected, being out of the news used to generate a feeling of "I'm out of it, I don't feel included", but, in time, the good people and the important things will come to you, comparing yourself to someone can be good in some level, like, to improve, to be better, but, when overtaking becomes a big problem, people in twitter spend hours fighting, and I just think "bro, it is worth it?" In some moment, it starts to get to you, even if you think not, affect your mindset, privacy, everything in excess is bad, and lately measuring this dosage is very difficult, dealing with innovation is a tough journey, but for your own good, it's worth it, I think I still have issues, but understanding and focusing on improving this now is something that will help you tomorrow, next week, and 5 years from now, learn to deal with, your way, and don't become a hostage to something that can help you, I don't watch these conversation videos a lot, you are very nice and kind, your channel appear in my recommendations, I'm happy, I liked your style, thank you for the video!!:))

[@daveforz]

Great video. I didn't quit social media myself, but I've managed to drop my screentime from a 6 hour daily average down to 1-2 hours per day. My attention span improved, my anxiety lessened, and my conversation skills got better because now I'm able to be more present. If you have the time I recommend you read the book Stolen Focus! It's what pushed me to be more mindful about how I spend my time online.

[@mads-.-]

That's great! How long did it take?

[@viv_677]

i quit social media 3-4 years ago and it’s the best decision I ever made. I used to feel so hyper aware of everything I was doing and like I couldn’t ever have a moment of my own because I had a compulsive urge to document it into bite size pieces for everyone to consume. And I overthought relationships and experienced major FOMO, which never allowed me to see the bright sides of my own life. I will never go back! Everyone always tells me they’re jealous and they wish they could do the same, but anyone can do it! You just have to commit.

[@damnitphan]

I deactivated my tiktok and Instagram nearly a month ago. I know it’s such a short time but now that I have a better understanding on what to do with my time I feel so much happier. I find myself reading some more, I’m picking up some hobbies, I’ve been running on my treadmill, and I notice I’m more focused and social at my work too!

[@MichelleGia]

nearly a month is amazing!! im so proud of you:) the beginning is definitely the hardest part, so down downplay that

[@Arwen.undomi]

I’m trying to do that as of now. Getting rid of these apps will help us realize the real world around us

[@katien3022]

Two things: 1. KZbin is social media, but getting rid of any major social media is an amazing thing and your first video actually helped me so much. After I watched it, everything finally just clicked for me and I got rid of Instagram for good. A lot of it was through prayer too. 2. I actually became so much more free, authentic, and built deeper friendships after getting rid of social media. A lot of it was due to my faith journey, but social media was a chain holding me down for sure. So I’m surprised you said you’re more closed off.

[@Yesgissie]

Oh my goodness🥹 I feel the same way as well!! I am currently on my faith journey as well and quite frankly.. I don’t think social media will make my journey any better

[@bob_seger]

Same. As I grow in my faith, I feel less and less reliant on social media as a distraction / validation

[@Shnayblay]

KZbin isn’t really the same as Facebook instagram and Twitter though.

[@xxwoman]

@@ShnayblayKZbin is a search engine. Not social media. Same with Pinterest.

[@dixiemixie5386]

I disagree that KZbin is a social media platform. That's like saying Netflix is a social media platform.

[@2l4thoia]

hi, michelle! ive actually tried making a new acc with only my closest friends in it. at first it felt nice but then ive recently find out that it triggers my FOMO really bad to the point that it gives me anxiety. seeing posts from my friends of how genuinely happy they are, their achievements, and where they are at the moment makes me compare them to my life and how the only thing that is constant in mine is me being in spiral. i do feel genuinely happy for them tho but i cant keep myself from comparing. so I am taking a break again and instead of seeing their achievements through their posts, i reach out to catch up. and it feels a lot way nicer and more intentional. i get to hear stories and every bit of its details which lets me feel their trust. and especially, i feel the sincerity behind it. i appreciate it so much because i feel the intensity of how they want me involved in their lives as much as i want to be involved.

[@christine4259]

im recently having the same crisis right now. i think i care about my friends' life so much that i tend to get jealous with theirs, questioning myself why im not as happy as them, what am i doing wrong. and now im also off social media to get a hold of myself more. youre right, its great to catch up with them personally it really makes us feel involved.

[@kaseyines]

The funny part about it is, everyone's in a spiral lol. Even your friends showing their highlights know that Instagram is like a photo album. And who frowns in photos? No one. Now your friends may actually have more highlights than you but I guarantee they accomplished them by staying off social media long enough to get it done. That's the other part they don't tell you. A lot of the most popular people online are online a lot less than you think.

[@catiec5447]

I've been of social media for almost 3 years now and I feel the exact same way as you. For me personally, it was after the 1 year mark when the cons really started to settle in. I think I am overall happier and a better person without it, but there were times I definitely suffered from feelings of loneliness/isolation. I also have some moments where I regret it all and have almost a "what have I done" mindset towards it, but then remember that I am much healthier without it. It just sucks because social media is so popular, so its hard to find people that understand us. I think if it weren't such a large part of peoples lives, it would be easier to transition off of it. Thank you for sharing :) hopefully it will inspire more people to delete

[@AlinaProbably]

i can see that this comment is from 8 months ago, has anything changed for you during this time?

[@diannekayemontano6845]

i'm going to start social media detox this week and this honestly gives me the push that i need. i've been sad these days and i wonder if social media plays the part of it.

[@claroookai4184]

Hey, I Hope you did it yet, because I can really tell you you’re gonna feel so much better- just let the time pass Stay strong you will do it!!

[@MichelleGia]

im so sorry youve been feeling that way:( I hope you feel better soon! i definitely noticed a difference in my mood when i was off, but just be patient with yourself:) wishing you all the best!

[@zaritiseawi]

Same! I am on my Instagram detox which is the only social media app I use except KZbin and you know KZbin is not addictive and it at least teaches you something if you use it right. Watching this video during my detox made me feel more motivated and confident about my decision!

[@rogermartinez9943]

Going into 2024 with no social media. I was tired of being in the loop and finding my self miserable comparing myself with others. I’m currently 1 week with out social media and I’m looking forward to not being on social media for months and hopefully years!

[@justinseang3019]

Same for me too, not because of the comparing. It was because of the immense ghosting.

[@zerihunsisay07]

You are right GIRL. I got the social dilemma documentary and watched it a month ago. All issues mentioned in the documentary are how social media is ruining our lives, and how the platforms are designed to be addictive and disturbing us. Literally, social media made us unsocial instead of connecting us. Watching that movie was the turning point for me to start digital minimalism and in some cases complete social media detox. So many things happened after my decision to quit Facebook, TikTok, and the like. I got more time to spend on something really important, reading books, focusing on only truly matter kinds of stuff and no more comparison of myself with the filtered lives of people on social media. Before, I used to spend tremendous hours of my life on TikTok and Facebook daily and missing important activities in my life. Then procrastination brought in and it was so annoying and I ask myself, what the heck I was doing? Then, after a little relief, I was doing the same thing and it was just unhealthy use of the platforms and costed me a lot. Now, the story is quite different, I started to focus on only important things and got rid of these addictive and destructive platforms. For everybody reading my comment, I am not good at English if you may find it a bit sloppy I apologize for that. Love you all!!!!

[@sara_sorsara]

I just offloaded social media today. I hope I can reach where you’re at one day!! Your English is really good btww :))

[@zerihunsisay07]

@@sara_sorsara Keep it. Undoubtedly you won't regret this decision. Wishing you all the best my dear!

[@oneglobeoneloveofficial]

Your English is very good since it is not your first language.

[@nqobilegumede585]

I hope I can be just like you one day❤

[@anywaysaditi]

i wish i could do the same. no matter how much one tries to use socials positively, they end up comparing themselves with strangers, friends and family. at least i do. despite knowing how irrational that is. there's this constant urge to share the slightest bit of happy moments to show others. i kinda hate how it is impossible sometimes to be off social media when you have based your living on it (coming from someone who wants to be an illustrator and a full-time artist, i gotta build an audience but it's draining my mental and creative energy)

[@hippityhoppitybobby7315]

Even tho all of the cmnts here r soo relatable urs was the most becoz that is exactly what i m struggling with. I wanna start an insta acc for art/writing but the constant presence of one on there to ensure u r posting enough nd all that is just sooo tiring ( i m just thinking it nd feeling drained). Nd then the fear of being judged also lurks. Anyways i do hope we find a way round it esp like u said being an artist it has double toll on us by draining our creative energy 🥲😫

[@anywaysaditi]

@@hippityhoppitybobby7315 I hope so too 💗

[@abbys104]

I'm 19, I no longer have insta, I've never had tiktok and I don't have snap either. It's been this way for almost a year now and I don't plan on having any social media anytime soon. It's been great. It is difficult at first but it's so worth it. So many benefits and once you're offline, you realize and notice all if the toxicity that came with those apps and whatnot.

[@Moonlightsunrizz]

It is my 3rd day of social media and I already feel refreshed. Social media was just negative, especially Insta. I would see random videos that had such negative comments, and they were so addicting to read. I hated all of my “friends” constantly bashing and posting negative things. I feel much better and I am definitely gonna try staying out as long as possible

[@JazmineHarris]

KZbin is an entertainment platform in my opinion, not social media.

[@JazmineHarris]

*Social media* has shifted more toward an entertainment focus to keep people on their platforms, and I think that’s why people try to lump KZbin in with them.

[@Roachan.]

honestly, seeing every aspect of someone's life on instagram lowering my respect for them. thats the actual reason why i stopped using it. you meet someone cool irl, but when you start digging on their social media account, all the magic is gone. now they're like anyone else.

[@silvermoon1051]

honestly i’ve also noticed not having social media gives me way less anxiety and i’m glad i’m not the only one feeling this way ❤

[@Bree.Romero]

I got grounded for months so I was forced to stop and it literally was the best thing that has happen to me 😂

[@MichelleGia]

LMAOOOO love that

[@saa___br]

sometimes i wished someone would ground me and forcefully take my phone away from me, just so i can really experience the present moment

[@Bree.Romero]

@@saa___br I would by a safe for your phone and have someone u trust lock it up for u , but trust me you’ll be able to find yourself and block out the negativity of the world you won’t regret it🙏🏽

[@saa___br]

@@Bree.Romero ahh yes that would be a good idea!

[@sapphicsuperstar17]

the feeling like someone is watching you part is so real, i deactivated my main instagram account because i was obsessed with who was looking at my account and who was following me. it's been a month and i feel so much better.

[@amitisk8]

today marks 1 month off of instagram! Time has gone INCREDIBLY slowly ever since I’ve been off. It’s honestly astounding. I was going through it mentally more than ever when I first deleted it, but now I’m really at peace

[@katarinakovrlija3372]

This is exactly my experience quitting social media. I quit it in 2021. for 6 months and then went back just to realize what I had missed which was nothing. But I got kinda addicted again and now I've been off Instagram for 2 months, and greatly reduced the use of Facebook and Twitter to a point where I almost don't use them anymore. I still go on Reddit sometimes and on Tumblr, and KZbin is my weakness of course except I also agree with you that it's not really social media. Everything you said I relate to 100% and I do believe social media is just a normalized addiction like alcohol or like smoking cigarettes used to be. The best thing you can do for your mental health and generally your life is to avoid it or limit it greatly. Amazing video!!

[@Kate89J]

I honestly rarely even post on social media anymore. For me it's the waste of time just consuming everything, the random videos, and so much negativity.

[@monaeo1210]

Hey girl I’m so glad I found your channel I’m a 26 year old female & I have been off social media for 5 years now & everything you are saying is so relatable & by the way your really pretty 🥰

[@iwtkms1]

I used to take long breaks, then I started taking short breaks, then that helped the transition into finally gaining the ability to truly moderate myself, my emotions, and what i let my senses consume

[@MichelleGia]

i love that for you!!

[@reanareed]

I’ve deleted my socials too but having an outlet for pictures is really important for me. So the only “social media” i post my scenery photos is on Pinterest because it really doesn’t even feel like social media to me and its like a digital form of scrapbooking

[@sunnysideup5841]

i've been off of social media for a long time too but i've started using it recently again i totally agree with every point that you share . the only best way to use social media is to have self control knowing when to stop and controlling yourself from being active 24/7 . this way you can express your self too , take inspiration too, share your good things too but at the same time you'll know when to take a break and maintain your peace of mind !!!

[@eyrestria]

i totally relate to everything you said! it really helps me, because i really felt alone with all those thoughts (for example the thing about taking pictures, wanting to document my life, being a artist, and not being up to date with my friends). seeing that it isn't unusual - really made my day (or life). thank you for this video, michelle! you are so authentic and i love it.

[@Imperialscorpio]

I made a private Instagram with no followers to just post whatever i feel, whenever i feel. It's so freeing! Its just a digital diary.

[@dmvmeu7140]

​@Imani dress that account like a bot then 😂😂

[@jiminiepabo_278]

I appreciate your content so much and i feel very safe here. As a 14yr old i feel like im too hooked up on social medias. Like i dont even enjoy instagram but i just stay there for thr dopamine. Sacrificing everything is hard as well since,besides my mind my friends or classmates literally shame me for not being caught up on this trend,this anime or being "too outdated". That is also one of the reasons why i stay or else id feel like i dont fit in. But at this point with increasing addiction and negative emotions,i just seek peace and ill make all necessarry sacrifices for it. Long term effects is what ill achieve,trends will be forgotten anyway. KZbin is also a problem being a major consumer but im trying to replace it with reading but that is not working lol :'). But in anyway,ill try my best to get rid of distractions of such sort. And once again,thank you for creating a community like this 💗

[@alexisb646]

You’re not crazy for stalking your crush. If the information is out there, is it realllyyy stalking? Lmao. I hope that one day Gen Z backs off of social media. I feel like it could happen because we prioritize mental health more than previous generations. I also hope that we don’t let electronics raise our kids either. I recently deactivated my main ig and deleted tiktok. I still have my back up Instagram, but I treat that one like Pinterest, and only follow people I don’t know, but are inspiring. I am a KZbin Cracky tho, my God 😭

[@MichelleGia]

LMAO thank you for validating me😭 And yes! Im hoping the same, im definitely seeing a movement amongst gen z's to cut down on their social media consumption though, and i love that for us

[@Tranquility._]

KZbin was so much better without yt shorts like i came off most other social media’s like IG and Tiktok to escape those addictive shorts and reels only for it to spread into KZbin 😭😭😭😭 I tell myself I’ll take a 5 minute break and I end up watching 58 shorts

[@chisomo8088]

So where so you follow people you DO know? Or you don't keep yo with them online?

[@m1lpyy]

KZbin Cracky 🤧🤧🤝🏼

[@whossevn]

I quit in 2019 , but recently got back into it but barely even open the app. because I truly felt you on the part like yes I miss missing out on trending topics and etc. also getting support from people you don’t even know in person but built a relationship with online for years means a lot more than some of the relationships in person. social media has it good sides because in my opinion it’s way easier to find people with the same interest in stuff as you and then you can just create this friend group who all relate.

[@eunoiaoftay]

I feel like taking long breaks from social media is amazing for mental and emotional health. When I did a cleanse I started to see just how much social media negatively affected me esp my perception of myself and where I was in life. I can agree that in the beginning it’s not easy though 😭

[@pluton_azul]

Your energy feels so raw and authentic, it's refreshing to hear you!! Also super helpful video, thank you

[@juanramonsilva1067]

Girl, KZbin is fine. You wouldn’t ever find edifying content such as this on Instagram or Tiktok. The only downside is perhaps KZbin Shorts, but it’s not nearly as bad as other social media. I get what you mean by the triggers, I’ve been off social media for 4 months now and on some instances I’ve had to use Facebook mainly to look up some things on the marketplace. But just seeing a few posts made me sick to my stomach, which made me remember why I quit in the first place. I can totally relate to the downsides, but overall I think the pros are far better and preferable over the cons. Of course 1 year off is a much broader experience than 4 months, but I can already relate to so much of what you are saying. Keep going strong, I wish you the best, this kind of videos make my day. Cheers :)

[@tracywang2306]

Hey Michelle! Lovely video as always ;) I tried this a few years ago at the end of high school too and I had a lot of similar findings. What's worked for me now is having social media but not spending as much time on it and (almost) only following specific people who inspire me. Ideally, I'd like to only follow these types of people/pages but sometimes I connect with new people I've met because they asked for my socials but their content isn't exactly content that makes me feel good about myself. In scenarios like this, I just try to avoid their content. For Instagram for example, I stopped scrolling because that puts me in a never-ending loop, but rather, I only click on people's stories who I'm actually interested in and then when it automatically goes to someone else's who's content I don't really care to consume, I just exit the story. Stories are short and sweet so I don't find it to be a huge time-waster unlike scrolling and most of the time people are saving their most pristine pictures for a post anyways so there's not as much of a comparison trap there (if you're that type of person that finds yourself always comparing). I find stories to also be more raw and less curated which makes me feel like I'm just on the app to see what's going on with people, not to compare. Of course, this has only worked for me now because I was able to get into the mindset of just being on the app to catch up with people & news instead of being on the app to "be someone" and feel like I need to post all these pictures to show everyone that I am XYZ. I hope this helps if you ever find yourself wanting to get on social media again. Whatever you do though, good luck and I think you're doing great! ^^

[@myytacc9851]

Yes!!!! You’re so relatable. Went to the description to follow you on insta and was like wait… I don’t even have an insta anymore😂. But yeah deleting social media is so peaceful to the mind. It’s nice to stay in touch with friends and relatives but when it gets to the point where you’re just mindlessly liking and scrolling and subconsciously comparing yourself to their highlights that’s when it becomes bleh.

[@peachymaxie4573]

Thank you for sharing your personal experience with this topic, I can relate so much. I've been off IG for years and just recently let go of twitter. I'm proud of that decision because it was both toxic for me. The only reason I stay on Tiktok is to connect with friends but also the app can be too addicting and can make me spiral a lot. I def have considered making a new account w just close friends to connect with and limiting my time on there greatly. I feel like to anyone reading, you know yourself more than anyone so listen to your intuition and do what's best for you :) Proud of you for doing what's best for yourself, thank you for your vulnerability with sharing. Makes me feel less alone!

[@john-cj3oy]

I've been off for a long time, but recently have been falling back down. After I watched this video, it reminded me of the time when I was at peace and tranquility. Thank you for opening my eyes back up.

[@Andrew-tr3jd]

I just started and I can relate to everything your saying. Your honesty is shockingly comforting and inspiring thank you.

[@user-dg3io5ge2y]

you have such a beautiful soothing voice

[@Aminakhayer]

Omg I relate to the part where you talked about being an artists on/ off socials. Before I got so addicted to social media I found it pretty easy to create art and come up with ideas myself, but since being on social media for so long, specifically on TikTok in more recent years, I find that I depend a lot on finding inspiration from artists online, probably because there is just so much content being produced online and I've consumed sm atp that in a way I rely on it and now I struggle a little with creating more of my own unique work. So I'm trying to stay off social media at the moment (for the most part), so that I come up with my own ideas etc without relying on social media and also to stop comparing myself to people online, it's tough but it feels refreshing being off social media/ finding a healthy balance !

[@maellecrp]

i deleted my ‘public’ social accounts for about a year but i kept an account to my own!! i was posting stories and like creating myself a profile but i was the only one watching it; it fueled my creativity a lot. also i could follow the news of my favorite celebrity and artists that inspired me. it felt really freeing. nobody could reach me, it was these convo like splitting up everywhere from all different social media (if that makes sense) also i want to say, i’m back on social media with an account that my friends follow where i post casually BUT THIS IS NOT A FAIL !! like if you do this challenge and in the end decide to comeback on social media, it’s totally okay and good! the aim is to find what works for you

[@VictoriaLyman]

I've never watched your videos before, this one just happened to show up in my recommended and as someone who talks constantly about wanting to throw my phone in the ocean I was intrigued! at some point in 2020 when the pandemic was at its worst I got off twitter, I think for about a year. I have since come back but I try to use it solely for what I enjoy most from it (for me that's tweeting about shows I'm watching and seeing what others are watching.) I can't lie I definitely miss being completely off of it but in that one year I took off I learned that I didn't need to be dependent on it. I try to take breaks even for just a few days, sometimes a week, at least once a month. it's definitely hard to want to be completely off the grid especially as someone in my mid-20s, I have friends all over now due to people's lives changing and social media does unfortunately become a way to keep up with them when we're all so busy. I commend you for taking this whole year and I definitely encourage people to take a break (even in moderation).

[@imkeroppi_]

14:54 i've been out of social media just for like three weeks and i came back to instagram cause i had something important to check, and just like she said, literally the moment i went back, something triggered me, so i'm not going back for a long time i hope yeah, sometimes i feel like im invisible now and i'm missing out EVERYTHING but in the first place, why did we made social media our social life (or at least me) i'm happy i'm not there anymore, sometimes i'm super calmed and not anxious at all like i used to be

[@hiacyntaflower]

I had a great time watching your video, I feel the same way you do about certain points. I would overshare a lot and then i had one year break from social media and that was so refreshing. I definitely became less obsessed with myself posting pictures and entertaining people with my life. You have a very nice voice and during the whole video it calmed me down a lot. Thanks 🤍☺️

[@sam.uellau]

Thanks for your update Michelle! Lovely reflection and it warms my heart to see this doing wonders for you and others in the comments on the same journey ❤ I deactivated my main account on 1 March 2023 and alot of your points, i felt it. Loving the peace, the focus, the presence and no urge to go back to it. About the FAQ 1) I do have a private acc just for close friends but I never use it to catch up with their lives or share anything. Only thing i share about are personal reflective posts. The thing is, since i started nightly journalling, the acc has less and less reason to exist so... I'll think about what to do with it HAHA 2) What do you do instead? For me, this happens alot. I just let myself be bored, part of being human is knowing I am bored, acknowledging it and then finding things to do to kill the boredom. Usually I'll end up on youtube, chat with a friend, go out, find new hobbies, clean up my room. Any one of these is still, imo, healthier than doomscrolling Instagram Keep up the wholesome content, Michelle!

[@AmygdalaPond]

For the photo outlet Day One is a good alternative! I use it as a means of documenting both small and eventful days, kind of like a visual journal. It’s nice to look back on moments I enjoyed without feeling like it’s a performance for the benefit of other people. Another option could be to create a dedicated folder to save selected photos. Anyways great video! Good luck to everyone exploring their relationship with social media!!

[@puppiestgirl]

im so glad you made this video as it makes me feel less alone in my journey.

[@thatguymarck]

point by point from this video is so relatable from my point of view from being off social media and what pros and cons I’ve felt along the way

[@Laurie.veloz86]

Your points are so valid and I just deleted my accounts , it was easy lol I feel the peace coming. And your thoughts about art and inspiration is true! I’m not being inspired with what is out there. ❤thanks again.

[@aniyahasya]

i agree with everything you said in this video. I'm still in high school but my summer break is coming up and I'm definitely going to delete instagram and tiktok for the whole 2 months and pick up a book and try out new things and see what I'm interested in. I'm ready to be confident in myself and actually able to answer the infamous "so tell me something about your self" lol.

[@aj-nd3zz]

this! i am going to try this out as well. hope it goes good for you ♥️

[@aniyahasya]

@@aj-nd3zz I hope so for you as well! i'll be out next week so i'm excited to start this no-technology journey!

[@alba.alba.alba.]

I literally agree with everything you said specially when you talked about the thing of cyber stalking someone. It’s like unconsciously you look info about someone and then you find out it’s unnecessary, I mean it’s better if you know the person by what they’re telling you. It’s feels so relatable

[@jimmyjames3863]

Hey Michelle. I just want to say I love watching the videos you upload. You really seem a honest and real person and love that about you. You don’t see that much these days. I would love to have a friend like you. You really are sincere and real. Keep up the good work and take care and stay safe 😊❤️

[@chewy_mochiiart]

I'm an artist, and the con you mentioned, made me smile. partly because yay you mentioned artists, second yay because theres pinterest! Literally all the inspo you need and no toxicity or badvibes.

[@adaonwuzuruike5576]

Sharing your creativity inspires others as much as you're inspired by other people's creativity.

[@MichelleGia]

Yess exactly!!!

[@christinamazilu2785]

Hey Michelle, you're pros and cons resonated with me. Especially how they blended into each other. I quit instagram 3 years ago, but about a year ago I made an instagram with just close friends, it started with 10 for months and then it started to range from 60-80 people. and I would say that most of the cons you mention start to appear. especially if you don't post as much. It makes the close people you follow start being romantic versions. That was my expierence. I ended up deleting it again. it's been 6 months and such a relief.

[@zahiraba6264]

hiii I just saw this KZbin video pop up on my Explore and now I've subscribed and I'm literally bingeing every single video u have uploaded LMAO I just want to say I love the values and the ideologies you tell your audience I relate to them a lot and it's honestly really difficult to find someone who thinks and values the same concepts as you and I your videos r AMAZING don't stop they bring me so much peace and tranquillity I was listening to you in the background as I put on my skincare I also quit instagram and TikTok for a year and fuckkk it felt so nice not to see anyone's damn business LMAO I felt tht I could move at my own pace in life with no pressure from society

[@huihuiranghae_]

the first con hits, I've been off social media for 3 years and I didn't even know that my high school friend got married and had a baby 😭

[@MichelleGia]

LMAOOOO ME

[@swagmoney6321]

Yessss having that account for your close friends is so funnn because you can post those pictures and share w people u actually wanna show it to!!

[@mujenga]

i deleted instagram and twitter for 2+ months late last year, got them back and set a 25 minute/day limit for them to stay connected, and felt the weight in my chest every time i opened the apps. plus i still had tiktok (but i used the not interested button a LOT so my fyp was largely synonymous with cats, activism, inspiration, and poetry). i decided to delete all three for good about a month ago and its been nice. i still use tumblr and pinterest because to me theyre no where near as fast and overstimulating as insta, twt, and tiktok, and i still get inspired. so i think thats advice i want to lend to you because of what you said about needing inspiration! use pinterest and tumblr because although they are social media, i feel like they operate really differently and its really easy to find lovely people to follow!

[@kingfang2945]

Hi Michelle! This is the first video I found of yours and OMG I completely agree with all of your notes. I felt the same way when it came to being in the present and not having the pressure/thought to take photos of everything to share on Insta. My "friends" on there weren't even real anyways! I began to think, "well I post for myself to keep a timeline" but I would continuously check to see if there were any comments or likes. I have deleted Instagram (but kept Facebook cuz of family) for only a few days now but I already feel happy and like my time is being put into more important things. Great video, I love being able to relate myself to others

[@JusTaTeeN3]

This channel is soooo amazing! Keep going Michelle.

[@AlexandreHenriquePinheiro]

Hi Michelle. I'm starting this experience now, your video encouraged me!

[@Stephaniem97]

Thanks for this video, def so relatable and helpful! 💗I’m staying off for a while, I was an over sharer and feel so at peace now 🥰

[@wheelie_bin]

Michelle, making a different profile with only my close friends was one of the healthiest things I ever did honestly!! :”))) There were a LOT of toxic people from my old schools unfortunately; I honestly just wanted to separate myself from my old school’s culture once I graduated a few years ago. The culture was just really isolating, it’s hard to describe exactly how it was in words, but I always felt like an outcast. Once i made that new profile, I definitely felt like I could be myself and share more nice things with people I knew I could trust. I felt so trapped in the old account, I just couldn’t be my authentic self because I felt so constrained by this perception that other people (who aren’t my close friends) had of me. Like, I felt like I couldn’t post photos of myself goofing around or at a party because that’s not the persona people associate me with in my old school. Plus, my history of being bullied didn’t make this any easier. The feeling of being “trapped” is hard to explain, but I feel like most of us have been there before!! It’s been amazing ever since and I just wanted to share my experience with you! It’s something I would suggest a million times !!! ❤❤❤

[@lilyjasminn]

i haven’t been necessarily off social media like instagram i would say, but i rarely post & my account is private with my very very close friends and people i talk to almost everyday + family which is under 50. & i only follow a few artists i listen to so i only consume things i want. I think having that balance for me has been super life changing and deleting everyone that were mutuals from other followers or people i rarely knew. I feel more at peace with the fact only people i want know what i’m up to in life because i still want to have that connection with them since we’re all growing up but we still have those memories from high school to share. & i only consume what i choose to see on my feed and instagram stories by choosing who i follow and not following people just cuz this person does. sometimes it can get unhealthy from scrolling too long but that’s when i have to realize to snap back into reality and that social media is “ fake”. and i say fake as in people choose what they want you to see

[@sabrinaalexandra9902]

Yesterday I logged out of Instagram and later the evening also out of TikTok. I feel like constantly looking at other peoples lives doesn’t make me happy, so for now I will try to only use it if I really have to :) and also using this time to focus more on myself and doing the things that are important to me 💗

[@thalyne2988]

Your smile is really beautiful ❤ this video helped me a lot

[@larraabueg645]

Great video!! So relatable with the process I have gone through. I noticed that deleting the apps doesn't work for me, so what I'd do is I'll just deactivate all my accounts. I have implemented a rule where I'd only be able to check my social media once a month. It works so well for me, it doesn't really feel as consuming and restricting. Now, social media feels kinda more exciting than overwhelming because I have something to look forward to at the end of the month.

[@Ushio11.11]

I have tried keeping a social media only for close friends. And it is better than the earlier case, but still you are constantly fed all the perfectionism, which again triggers. If the people are really close to you, meet them, call them, go to their places. Because no matter how much you try, internet it a big place, and you will always find measuring your self worth based on the people on internet.

[@danbby5913]

thank you so much for sharing! i totally agree with your pros and cons. i feel the same, now that i don‘t do social media since half a year.

[@packnetadaija]

Honestly I’ve been off social media for about 2-ish years and honestly it’s a good feeling, it’s like the people who I want to have a connection with will reach out, the ones who don’t, won’t and it shows who really is there for you. I only use KZbin and Pinterest really 😂😂

[@peace2923]

Your point about being less anxious about Romantic Relationships is so true!! I have quit most of social media platforms and I too notice that I was never really interested in them….I JUST HAD A LOADS OF INFORMATION ABOUT THEM!

[@bakabaka2061]

Michelle Gia great video, I actually did exactly this about 4 months ago. It's been odd and I do miss catching up with people but I enjoy not knowing and not knowing won't hurt me.

[@karthikvijay5678]

Hey,, thanbks for sharing this video. I have been on and off social media and now taking a month off. While I agree it helps you to be present and have a sort of peace away from off the hustle and bustle of social media. I think the thing is for me, it is beneficial to meet new people and to even create a community especially if are a content created and want to connect with others in a similar field. So, I feel like there is a thin line between it being beneficial and also addictive and that is the challenge

[@nikekid009]

i've deactivated my main and essentially made a new account to follow traditional artist, close friends and siblings that I want to keep up with. Like you said you dont want to miss the tiny milestones happening in family or friends lives. I found it way easier to manage my time this way. Theres no endless scrolling when you minimize the ppl you follow. Give it a try.

[@dariofkxv6829]

I love going through my archived instas or like private spotify playlists etc because its like this is for me and not for anyone else yk

[@MichelleGia]

OMG same twin!!

[@dariofkxv6829]

@@MichelleGia I feel like we could talk for hours

[@this_crab]

Impressive 1 year milestone Michelle :D I think I’m fine when it comes to consuming social media, I’m sooo thankful I never got into TikTok 😆😆 I use Snapchat but mostly for myself, I like to take pictures on a daily basis. Also I really like memories function, I love being reminded what exactly I did on a certain day 😄 plus I can always share those pictures with my close friends if I want to ^^

[@MichelleGia]

hehehe thanks jules

[@zazasl]

i have the same thing with the photo outlet thing, but i started posting them on Pinterest. It's not like most social medias cuz you don't really interact with people but you still have a place to share them in one place☺️

[@martajimeneznieto2765]

Thanks to your previous vídeo talking about this i quit most of my apps of social media and i feel so much better since then. I wanted you to know ❤

[@MichelleGia]

Ahh I’m so happy for you, that made my day❤️wishing you all the best!

[@1WatchmeTV]

I definitely relate to this. I've been off to social media a year from now, with that i learn to socialize especially to my fam. No lie as a introvert, it was exactly great idea to atleast appreciate the nature world.☺️❤️

[@Laurensthoughts12]

I read in a book that these companies aren't necessarily listening to us but based on your info and what you do online, the algorithm knows you so well they can anticipate what you're gonna look up/search for which is even creepier

[@dge.]

You are very well-spoken!! I love your vibe.

[@MichelleGia]

Thank you❤️

[@nikaoheeg23]

OH MY GOODNESS. The one about romantic relationships? I agree completely. After deleting social media my desire for a romantic relationship didn't necessarily go down per se. But the feeling that I was incomplete without someone or this empty feeling I had because I didn't have someone DID go away. I was so so so close to dating one of my guy friends, I basically had myself in a situationship, and then three months after deleting social media I realized that I didn't want to have that type of relationship with him and that I wasn't mature enough for it anyway. It's crazy how much social media can affect how we think and feel and we don't even notice it. Deleting social media was one of the greatest decisions I've made in the past year. If you're worried about being bored or not having friends so you won't know what to do at school or maybe even just looking weird because you're not always on your phone. Just don't worry about it. I worried about that too. But I can tell you that you find ways and you get over it. I didn't even have a phone in grade nine and I was fine. Not having social media? That will be a piece of cake for you. You can do it, I believe in you and it is totally worth it. Trust me.

[@StarrSky]

I needed this.. my life has been crazy this past year and social media ain’t making it any better