Discover the joys of a social media-free festive season. Top tips for a peaceful holiday, focusing on mental health and being present.
By Anneka Rose
Picture this: It’s the festive season, and you’re juggling a million things – from planning the perfect Christmas dinner to ensuring the kids’ holiday outfits don’t look like they’ve been in a tussle with a Christmas tree. Now, add the constant buzzing of your phone with social media notifications. Overwhelming? Absolutely.
“SOCIAL MEDIA, WHILE CONNECTING US TO THE WORLD, CAN BE A SOURCE OF STRESS AND ANXIETY.”
The “Why” Behind the Social Media Holiday
Why stepping back from social media during the festive season is not just a good idea, but a brilliant one.
1. Quality Time Redefined
Remember when festive seasons were about family and friends? It’s time to bring that back. With no social media distractions, you can truly be present in the moment, cherishing those precious family times. Trust me, your kids will notice the difference, and so will you.
2. Mental Health Matters
Social media, while connecting us to the world, can be a source of stress and anxiety. The constant comparison, the pressure to showcase a perfect holiday – it’s exhausting. Taking a break can be like a breath of fresh air for your mental wellbeing.
3. Rediscover Joy in the Little Things
Without the urge to check your phone every five minutes, you might find joy in the simple things – like building a gingerbread house with the kids or enjoying a hot cuppa in peace.
4. Boost Your Creativity
Ever noticed how your best ideas come when you’re not staring at a screen? Disconnecting from social media can spark creativity. Maybe you’ll come up with a new festive tradition or find a creative way to wrap those awkwardly shaped gifts.
Expert Tips on How to Take a Social Media Break
Now that we’re all nodding in agreement (I hope!), let’s talk about how to actually do this.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Don’t aim for a complete blackout if you know it’s not feasible. Start with a few hours a day or specific ‘no social media’ times, like during meals or family activities.
2. Notify Your Circle
Let your friends and followers know you’re taking a break. This sets expectations and reduces the anxiety of missing out on something important.
3. Remove Temptations
Out of sight, out of mind. Try deleting the apps from your phone for the holiday period. If that’s too drastic, move them to a folder where they’re not constantly in view.
4. Find Alternatives
Remember books? Or those DIY projects you’ve been putting off? Now’s the time to dive into them. Replace scrolling time with something tangible and fulfilling.
5. Embrace Boredom
It’s okay to be bored. In fact, it’s healthy. Boredom often leads to self-reflection and creativity. Plus, it gives your brain a much-needed rest.
6. Family Challenges
Involve the family. Have a ‘no phones at the dinner table’ rule or a family game night where phones are a no-go.
7. Reflect and Reassess
Use this break to evaluate your relationship with social media. How does being off it make you feel? You might discover insights about your usage patterns and their impact on your life.
Having a social media-free festive season can be liberating. It’s about making room for what truly matters – family, friends, and your own wellbeing. It’s a chance to create memories without the pressure of capturing them for an online audience.
So, as we dive into the whirlwind of the festive season, let’s try to put down our phones and pick up on the joy, laughter, and love around us. Here’s to a more present, peaceful, and joyous holiday season.
Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being present. Happy holidays, everyone.
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