These days, it seems like quitting social media is the new self-care trend. Everywhere you turn, someone’s announcing their departure from Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter (now X), citing reasons like “toxic competition,” “constant comparison,” or even “it’s ruining my relationships.”
To be fair, they’re not wrong about the challenges. Social media has a way of amplifying insecurities and fueling distractions. It’s easy to blame the platforms when feelings of jealousy, inadequacy, or procrastination creep in. But here’s the thing: social media didn’t invent those problems. They’ve always been there, long before hashtags and likes came along.
Blaming social media for every issue is like blaming dessert for unhealthy eating habits. It’s not inherently bad; it’s all about how it’s used. Instead of abandoning the platforms altogether, a better approach might be learning how to use them more intentionally.
In fact, stepping away from technology can be an excellent reset. Studies show that tech detoxes can help people feel more present in their relationships and more focused in their daily lives. But abandoning social media completely? That might be an overreaction. When used wisely, social media has plenty of upsides, and quitting entirely means giving up on some of its unique benefits.
Here are a few things people might miss if they give up social media altogether:
1. Sharing Your Voice
For creatives, social media is the ultimate megaphone. Writers, artists, activists and even everyday people with unique stories can share their work with the world instantly. Social media has democratized creativity, breaking down traditional barriers to entry. Sure, the internet has its trolls, but for every troll, there are countless others who are genuinely impacted by the content you create.
For me, as a writer, social media is how my work finds its audience. It’s not just about getting “likes.” It’s about connecting with people who might need the exact encouragement, challenge or laugh that my words can bring. In another era, the only outlet might have been a local newsletter. Now, it’s a global stage. That’s not just good for me; it’s good for the world.
2. A Window to the World
Social media can make the world feel small in the best way. I follow a diverse group of people—artists, activists, theologians, comedians and even bakers from across the globe. I get to see slices of life I’d never experience otherwise: a protest in Hong Kong, a quiet morning in a Parisian café or even a brilliantly simple DIY project from someone in a completely different culture. It’s a chance to step outside your own echo chamber and see life from another perspective. Sure, some corners of the internet are nothing but hot takes and outrage, but there are just as many that inspire, educate and encourage curiosity. The key is being intentional about who you follow and what kind of content you consume.
3. Staying Connected
I won’t lie—Instagram DM and TikTok comments aren’t the same as a long phone call or a handwritten letter. But in a world where we’re busier than ever and often live far away from the people we care about, social media bridges the gap. I live hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles away from people I love, and there’s no way I could keep up with their lives without it. A quick scroll shows me my niece’s latest drawing or my best friend’s new apartment.
It’s not perfect, but it’s a way to stay in the loop when life makes deeper connections harder to sustain. And sometimes, those little updates can be the spark for a real conversation—a DM that turns into a call or even a visit.
4. Real-Life Connections
Believe it or not, social media doesn’t just connect you to strangers—it can also deepen real-life friendships. In fact, I met my husband through Twitter. I’d written a blog post, he read it and the rest is history.
Beyond romantic relationships, I’ve also built an incredible network of friends I never would’ve met otherwise. Some started as casual online interactions, but they’ve since turned into real-life friendships that I treasure. Social media has this strange way of breaking down barriers, letting you connect with people you might never cross paths with in person. It’s a modern version of “meeting a friend of a friend,” except now, that friend could live halfway across the country—or the world.
5. Pure, Unfiltered Fun
Let’s not overlook one of social media’s simplest joys: it’s fun. Whether it’s a perfectly absurd meme, a cat video or an oddly specific TikTok that makes you laugh until you cry, these moments of humor and levity can brighten an otherwise dull day. Social media gives us a break from the grind, a way to share joy and laughter with others. Sure, you have to manage the endless scroll and avoid falling into the “doomscrolling” trap, but when used wisely, social media can be a source of lighthearted relief. And let’s be real: we all need a little more of that.
So, no, I’m not quitting social media. Instead, I’m working on fixing me. My jealousy, my insecurity, my need for validation—those are my battles. Social media just shines a light on them.
By all means, take breaks when you need them. Set boundaries. Delete the apps for a while if it helps. But don’t let the bad outweigh the good. Social media isn’t winning unless you let it.