Social Media Is Optional

By default, social media is “opt-in.” But by the way our culture lives, it seems the opposite is true; you must join social media to be relevant or “in the know.” But as Gen Z-er Gabriela advocates, opting out of social media is a valid option. In fact, for some, it may be the only viable choice.

Gabriela coined the term, “APPstinence.” Taken at face value, it means to abstain from social media, plain and simple. This is in contrast to the pushback she experienced from many. Rather than abstinence, they promoted that the better tactic is moderation. She says,

“Appstinence has taught me an important lesson that I want to pass on to my peers. Moderation of platforms that are designed to hook you is more trouble than it’s worth. We must not forget that social media is optional.”

What struck me about this is it’s like telling a young pre-teen kid, “You don’t need to abstain from alcohol, you just need to learn moderation.” Folks, we have age restrictions for good reasons, both biological and sociological.

Many books and articles have well covered the pros and cons of social media and its effects on our youths in the past decade or so. I won’t reiterate that now. Instead, I ask you to take some time to read Gabriel’s article, weigh her argument, gain perspective from her experience, and think it over. Then decide how best you can respond for yourself and also share with others her message.

Gabriel’s experience is not unlike my own, though hers sounds amplified. I’ve read Cal Newport’s book, “Digital Minimalism” — twice. I’ve deleted social media accounts before, only to rejoin. Peer pressure is real. I’ve deleted the apps from my phone many times, which really helps. I’ve logged out from the desktop browser. Gabriel’s 5D method has legit merit. I’ve even considered, more than once, using a “dumb” phone instead of a smartphone.

If you struggle with social media addiction, you’re not alone. Like some who can have one or two strong drinks on a Friday night and call it, “good,” some can use social media sparingly. But if you struggle like a social-media alcoholic, this is your call to free yourself. You can do it. And there’s no shame in asking someone else for help; that’s what IRL friends and family are for.