Here's how to stay off social media in 2024

Let’s face it, 2023 was a tough year for social media. It seems that as society advances towards late-stage capitalism, our online safe spaces deteriorate in the pursuit of profit. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) seem more intent on invading privacy, damaging self-worth, and enabling hate speech. Additionally, their features are increasingly indistinguishable from each other (YouTube Shorts? Instagram Reels? What’s the difference?)

Now that 2024 is upon us (seriously, it feels like November was just last week), many of us are making new resolutions. For me, one of those resolutions is to step away from social media. However, I’m not here to persuade you to completely abandon it—research indicates that despite its detrimental effects, we still find it difficult to part ways with social media. But if you’re considering quitting and don’t know where to start, I’ve got you covered.

Removing Apps and Managing Notifications

The first and most straightforward step for a digital detox in 2024 is deleting social media apps. While it may sound simple, it’s not. Social media has become a primary source of information, making it challenging to go cold turkey. Furthermore, like any addiction, giving up social media might lead to replacing it with another equally unhealthy habit.

This drastic step can notably enhance mental well-being, improve sleep quality, boost productivity, and encourage more meaningful in-person interactions, ultimately leading to a focus on personal goals and an overall improvement in well-being. There are less radical alternatives to quitting social media, too. Experts recommend setting obstacles to minimize social media’s impact on your daily life. This includes muting app notifications or consolidating them to receive only one or two daily notifications.

Explore App Blockers and Time Limits

Discipline is one of the most significant hurdles when attempting to leave social media. To enforce change in 2024, consider using an app blocker or the built-in app limits available on smartphones. These tools offer a balanced approach, gradually reducing social media use, leading to improved concentration and decreased distraction. This method is particularly helpful for those seeking a less abrupt transition, aiding better time management and healthier digital habits.

Apps like Forest provide an engaging way to limit social media usage. By focusing on tasks, users can watch a virtual tree grow, blending productivity with environmental mindfulness. If you’re hesitant to delete your social media apps but still want to reduce usage, this method can be quite effective.

If using another app to limit social media use isn’t appealing, consider leveraging the support of family and friends. Real-life interactions and activities can help fill the void left by a digital detox, reducing feelings of isolation or anxiety that may arise from disconnecting from online networks.