5 Things I Learned After Quitting Instagram for a Month

You probably have figured out by now, given the frequency that I usually post, that I took a whole month off of my personal Instagram. It was a way to give my mental brain a break, to focus on cultivating more mindfulness, and to realign my priorities.

Here are some things I learned in my journey:

1. I stopped comparing + focused on myself.

I was no longer looking at all these "influencers" and their content. I wasn't worries about what I was missing out on, because I wasn't constantly surrounded by it. Instead, I became more focused on the next step forward for myself. I quit wasting time in wishing I were at the level as someone else and became more driven to focus on changes I needed to make in my own like in order to be healthier, happier, and more fulfilled.

2. I missed encouraging others + being encouraged.

Honestly, I missed encouraging others with words and comments. It brings me joy to be able to use Instagram for this purpose! In addition, there were also some significant accounts I missed following who seemed to always had something inspiring and truthful to say. I often relied on these accounts for a little pic-me-up or an extra helping of Jesus, so I had to look elsewhere to fill that gap.

3. I had richer conversations.

I could no longer use something seen on Instagram as a conversation starter or topic of conversation, so finding something else to talk about not only provided MORE conversation, but it was richer and held more depth than one about a celebrity's outfit or where a friend when on vacation.

4. I realized what was worth sharing + what isn't.

I started taking note of times when I really wished I could post something, especially on my Instagram story. It made me pause and ask "Why do I REALLY want to share this? To make others jealous or envious, or to inspire and encourage?" I learned about the importance of sharing with meaning and intention and asking the "why" before every post.

5. I became excited about the possibility of change.

As you have already seen, a lot of change has happened. Not only do I have a brand new website I am SOO excited about, but I have been doing a lot of inner healing by seeing a therapist and practicing yoga + mindfulness. In addition, I have grown so excited and inspired with how to use Instagram in this new season, especially with Jack and I going abroad next semester. I think the reason I have seen and promoted so much change is because my focus shifted and I dedicated more time to bettering myself rather than scrolling along on a little tiny app.

Thinking of taking a break? It doesn't have to be for a whole month. Maybe it's every Saturday, or maybe it's the week between Christmas and New Years. Regardless, logging off every once in a while had AMAZING benefits, just ask me!

Do you have any tips for balancing your time online? Let me know in the comments!

I am always looking to improve myself + learn from others.