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I Left Instagram for 2 Months – Here’s What Happened


Midjourney Art created by: Nakia Reine
Midjourney Art created by: Nakia Reine

I never thought I’d be one of those people writing about a “social media detox.” Yet, here I am. But let’s be clear—I don’t see it as a detox. It’s more like a reintroduction to who I really am.


Over the past few months, something felt… off. I found myself doom-scrolling—whether I was bored, anxious, avoiding something, or just being nosey. You know how it goes: open Instagram, scroll, laugh, share, and look up to realize an hour (or more) has vanished into the abyss. All I had to show for it were forwarded reels, a few likes, and a lingering sense of meh.


So, one day, I decided to take a week off Instagram. That week turned into 30 days. Thirty days became 60. Now? It’s been over two months, and honestly, I’m not sure when I’ll go back fully.


If you’re rolling your eyes right now (like I used to when reading posts like this), hear me out. This isn’t just another “I quit social media and became enlightened” spiel. This is about reclaiming time, creativity, and peace of mind—and yes, it’s possible without deleting your accounts forever.


Why Instagram Had to Go

Let’s be real: Instagram used to be fun. It was selfies, memes, and the occasional avocado toast. Now? It’s a marketing juggernaut where algorithms decide what’s “important” to you. A quick scroll can take you from a cute puppy reel to full-on rage mode thanks to some clickbait nonsense.


This emotional rollercoaster was exhausting. Worse, I realized Instagram was my crutch. Feeling stressed? Open the app. Avoiding a tough conversation? Scroll away. It was a digital security blanket, but it was suffocating me.


So, I deleted the app. It felt like breaking up with a toxic ex—hard but necessary.


The Tingles of Creativity

Here’s the thing nobody tells you: when you step back from the noise, your mind gets louder in the best way. I started noticing little sparks of creativity—what I call “the tingles.” Suddenly, I wanted to try embroidery, take a pottery class, and bake a lemon blueberry cake just because.


And then, one Saturday, I found myself typing away at my iPad. That writing turned into a blog post. And that blog post turned into this blog—Past Fwrd. Funny how stepping away from one platform helped me rediscover another.


Midjourney Art created by: Nakia Reine
Midjourney Art created by: Nakia Reine

How to Navigate Your Own Break

Thinking of trying a social media hiatus? Here’s what worked for me:

  1. Set BoundariesI deleted the Instagram app from my phone. Now, if I want to use it, I have to log in on my desktop. Trust me, scrolling while sitting upright at a desk is nowhere near as appealing as lounging on the couch.

  2. Identify Problem PlatformsFor me, Instagram was the main culprit. Figure out which platform drains you most and start there.

  3. Replace the HabitI swapped Instagram for Pinterest, which feels like a creative playground without the emotional baggage.

  4. Give Yourself GraceIt’s not easy to quit cold turkey. Let your friends know you’re taking a break and ask them not to send you links or reels.

  5. Prepare for the Mental ShiftI didn’t expect much from this experiment, but I gained clarity, creativity, and more meaningful time with my family.


Ready to Try It?

As 2025 approaches, why not add “Take two weeks off social media” to your goals? Delete the app, reclaim your time, and see what happens. You might just surprise yourself!

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Serena @ Thrift Diving
Jan 01

Girls, I soooo feel you on this. I recently discovered that I have an issue with Facebook that won't allow me to access my personal FB account, only my business account. And I'm okay with that because it's one less site that i feel compelled to scroll. I feel happier to let go of doom scrolling and I decided today that I would turn that anxiety-scrolling into working on a sewing project I have been wanting to do for awhile: a jumpsuit I have been wanting to make! :) Great post!

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I love this idea! Channeling the know energy into something positive that will give you a meaningful result! Great idea!!

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