Two Week No Social Media Check In

The past couple of weeks have been a whirlwind, and a social media break felt like the only way to catch my breath. With everything happening in the world, the constant flood of information—some of it questionable—became overwhelming. On top of that, my car was declared a total loss last week, I started physical therapy for my neck, and I’ve had a string of doctor’s visits and new medications to adjust to. Saying I was overwhelmed is an understatement! My brain felt like it was one more thing away from a full-blown avalanche. (Don’t worry, the flair for drama is still intact. 😂)

With all of that going on, something had to give. Since I couldn’t exactly cancel doctor’s appointments or prior commitments, social media was the logical thing to step back from. Between sending and receiving constant videos, news updates, and memes, it was interrupting my thoughts, work, physical activities, and hobbies—so it was time for a reset.

Table of Contents

Two Week No Social Media Check In

How I’m feeling

Really, really good. Still overwhelmed, but less emotionally drained. As an empath with ADHD, everyday life is already exhausting, and when you add 900 articles about current events, plus videos and commentary from every direction? My brain just shut down. I felt drained and even a little depressed. Now? I feel so much better. And a surprising bonus? I’m not seeing constant ads—which is ironic, considering my career is in marketing. 😂

Have I cheated?

I deleted Instagram and TikTok, but I did keep Threads, Bluesky, RedNote, and Pixelfed. My BookThreads account is mostly book-related, so it feels like a safe space (with the occasional rogue post). Bluesky is still a work in progress, but I’m fine-tuning it.

Then there’s RedNote—my little sanctuary. It’s the cozy, aesthetic dream that I thought Pinterest would turn into! It’s full of calming content—like Aunties in their cottages making the most beautiful food. Oh my goodness, the food! I’ve learned so many traditional Chinese recipes that I can’t wait to try. I do limit my time on there to 10 minutes, though, because it’s very easy to fall into a rabbit hole. But unlike IG and TT, RedNote actually brings me peace, so I don’t think it’s a bad thing for me.

What I’ve Been Doing Instead:

Without the constant pull of social media, I’ve been focusing on things that bring me real joy. I’ve been writing more blog posts, watching movies I already own, making time for the gym, and listening to audiobooks. I’ve also been clearing out space for a makeshift sewing area, which I’m so excited about. And of course, I’ve been diving into my small business—experimenting with soap-making and preparing for my first Saturday markets in the spring and summer. It’s been so refreshing to redirect my energy into things that feel fulfilling.

Will I go back?

Eventually, yes—but on my own terms. While I know IG is a great tool for promoting small businesses, I want to make sure I return feeling refreshed and intentional. This break has also been a wake-up call—Meta and TikTok aren’t the only platforms out there, and if either one disappeared tomorrow, I’d lose access to my entire community. So, I’m shifting my focus to building something more lasting: an email list and a community that feels like a group of friends rather than just followers.

That said, I’m really excited about this next chapter. I’m going all in—the old-fashioned way. I got my LLC, my business license, and left room to pivot if needed. But right now? I love the idea of making these little nuggets of skin-nourishing joy. 💛

That said, I think I may need to bring in a social media manager to help me stay hands-off. We’ll see!

That’s the update for now! Hope you’re all doing amazing and staying healthy this winter. It’s been super dry and snowy out here in the PNW, and while I cannot wait for spring, I’m doing my best to enjoy the moment.