Embracing Life Beyond the Screen: My Journey Without Social Media

"Seriously, you don't own an account?" "Wow, are you an antisocial?" "You must be a nerd!" These are the puzzled remarks that often come my way when people discover my lack of presence on popular social media platforms. While many are immersed in the digital world, I've consciously chosen to step away, not out of disinterest, but because my experiences led me to question the true value of this virtual realm.

During my school days in Malaysia, I witnessed the fervent indulgence of my friends in social media. Their lives seemed intricately linked to their online personas, a whirlwind of grand birthday celebrations and vindictive posts. Amidst the facade of happiness and success, I observed the melancholy truths that lay behind the carefully curated pictures and statuses, often leading to nothing but feelings of emptiness and regret.

As I turned 18, I encountered countless individuals whose lives seemed to mirror one another. This revelation prompted me to reflect on the stark differences between the older generations, deeply rooted in spirituality and tradition, and the current generation, deeply influenced by the virtual world. It pained me to see how many were missing out on the joys of the real world, fixated instead on the superficial allure of social media.

The realization of the overwhelming impact of the digital world inspired me to bid farewell to social media permanently, opting instead for a life of genuine experiences and real connections. I immersed myself in various activities, discovering the joy of cooking, helping others, tending to pets, and nurturing my passions, all while savoring the present moment and relishing the natural beauty that surrounded me.

In my observations, I found that while social media can serve a purpose, it requires a mindful approach. I've distilled these guidelines for responsible social media usage:

                 

 A Guide to Responsible Online Engagement.

• For Business Owners: Leverage the power of social media to enhance your brand visibility and attract a wider audience, ultimately leading to increased profits and business growth.
• For Celebrities: Embrace social media as a powerful tool to connect with your fanbase, share your journey, and leave a lasting impact through authentic engagement and storytelling.
• For Teenagers: Use social media as a means to reconnect with old friends, but exercise caution by sharing personal photos only with those you trust to protect your privacy and security.
• On Privacy and Security: Be mindful of the potential risks associated with sharing personal information online. Avoid posting current pictures and locations, as they may be susceptible to hacking, scams, and unwarranted attention.
• On Content Sharing: Refrain from sharing provocative or explicit content, as it can have adverse effects on your reputation and well-being. Remember, your online presence should reflect your values and integrity.
• On Personal Belongings: Avoid flaunting material possessions or wealth, especially if you're not in the workforce. Focus on building genuine relationships and meaningful experiences rather than seeking validation through material displays.
• On Online Relationships: Foster real connections that transcend digital communication. While social media can facilitate initial interactions, prioritize face-to-face communication and genuine expressions of affection over virtual interactions.
• On Mindful Engagement: Exercise prudence when sharing content. Before posting, consider whether it adds value to your life and the lives of others. Remember, the internet can be a double-edged sword; use it wisely to foster positivity and growth.
• On Digital Well-being: Take control of your online experience by setting boundaries and being mindful of the time spent on social media. Embrace the present moment, live authentically, and prioritize real-world experiences over virtual distractions.

~It is okay to own a technology, what is not okay is to be owned by technology~