002 | breaking up (a little) with social media

Finding balance in a world that’s always online.

Author

Lucinda Nixon Elder
February 12, 2025 • Reading Time: 7 minutes

001 | A THOUGHT

Social media. Let’s talk about it. It’s an incredible tool for connection, creativity, and business growth—but it can also be soooo draining, and addictive, and leave us feeling like we’re always behind. One minute, it’s inspiring you; the next, you’re questioning if you’re doing enough…or if you are enough. Have you also gone down this spiral? 🫠

Don’t get me wrong—I LOVE social media, and I love the internet. I’m endlessly grateful for the internet turned IRL friendships, creative expression, and business opportunities it’s made possible. But I’ve also noticed how it’s subtly (and not always so positively) shaped some of my habits and focus.

Lately, I’ve found myself constantly scrolling (often without evening meaning to) and walking away feeling more drained than inspired. The creative energy I used to get from it? Not nearly as present. Instead, I find myself sighing and proclaiming that I want to quit socials (mostly Instagram). 😆

With that, I’ve been exploring questions like- Can I build my business in a way that doesn’t rely so heavily on social media? And when so much of life and work happens in these spaces, can I step back without feeling like I’m missing out? What about the memes?!

A friend recently shared a quote that really stuck with me: “Anything that is meant for you will not miss you.” I really needed that reminder!

Despite the back-and-forth in my head, I know social media isn’t the only way to build a business or meaningful connections. And it’s definitely not the only way to grow—personally or professionally. Maybe being less plugged into the constant stream of information is actually better for our creativity and mental well-being.

Despite my dramatic declarations of wanting to quit, I’ve decided against an all-or-nothing approach. Instead, I’m choosing moderation, intention, and a healthier, more sustainable relationship with social media.

002 | A TIP

If you’re also feeling the pull to step back, let’s rethink our relationship with social media together. Here are three ways I’m working toward reducing my time on socials while making the time I do spend there more intentional:

CURATE & LIMIT:
When you’re on social media, make it work for you—not the other way around. Be mindful of who you follow, when you log in, and how you engage. Set boundaries, unfollow accounts that trigger comparison, and give yourself permission to step back. Everything will still be there.

What I’m trying:

  • Using Instagram for just 1 day on weekdays & more freely on the weekends, prioritizing posting & engaging over mindless scrolling.

  • Deleting the Facebook app and sticking to the desktop version (because let’s be honest, the clunky web experience is enough to make me log off quickly 😂)

  • Using an app to curb my compulsive checking. I’ve had some success with Screen Zen in the past and am currently testing out Opal. So far, I’m already shocked by how often I instinctively reach for my phone. (yesterday I legit picked up my phone 88 times)

  • Going directly to news sources I prefer to check so I can stay informed on my own terms and not get lost in the comment sections.

  • Replacing the impulse to check socials with something more fulfilling—I'm now carrying my Kindle everywhere, so instead of clicking, I’m reading a few pages of a book.

  • (My social notifications are already turned off, but if yours aren’t, this might be another thing you can try!)

FIND INSPIRATION IN OTHER PLACES:
Does social media fulfill you? While I love the relationships and conversations it fosters, I don’t think the scrolling piece (what I do the most) adds much real value to my life. So I’m shifting my focus to more sustainable sources of inspiration, creativity, and business growth.

What I’m trying:

  • Swapping morning & nighttime social scrolling for reading, journaling, or making mood boards.

  • Rediscovering sources for inspiration. When I was in design school, Instagram didn’t exist! I found ideas in magazines, books, real-life experiences, and quiet brainstorming. I want to reconnect with those sources.

  • Investing in long-form content to build my personal growth business in a way that isn’t dependent on social media.

TAKE IT OFFLINE (MORE!)
Social media is just one way to connect. What if we leaned into more in-person opportunities? Whether it’s networking, spending time in nature, or exploring a new hobby, there’s so much to gain from stepping away from the screen.

What I’m trying:

  • Building IRL connections & partnerships. Actually pitching my planner to local shops, studios, and organizations that align with my values (getting from behind the screen is scary, but I really want to do it this year!).

  • Focusing on projects that excite me outside of socials. I have a feeling that with the time I free up from scrolling, I’ll make so much more progress on both business and creative passion projects.

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003 | A PROMPT

If you want to unplug a little (or a lot), these journal prompts can help you explore what a more intentional, balanced digital life might look like for you

PROMPT 1

Create a “Reduce the Scroll” list. What can I do instead when I feel the urge to check social media?

PROMPT 2

What’s one way I can use social media more intentionally this week?

PROMPT 3

What would my days look like if I spent half the time I do on social media doing something else?

004 | A REC

If you’re looking for ways to fill the time you’d usually spend mindlessly scrolling, I’ve got you! Here are some fun resources to spark creativity, inspiration, and connection.

And if you’re feeling the same pull, let’s talk—

Are you making any changes to your relationship with social media? How do you feel about your relationships with it? I’d love to know what’s working, any tips, or what’s been challenging for you!

x Luci

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