04/12/2025
I have decided to terminate my Facebook and Instagram accounts. I am disillusioned with both platforms (and I believe this applies to all social media) for several reasons:
1. **Bombardment of Advertising**: It only takes a momentary glance at a post to be inundated with an endless stream of similar advertisements. Meanwhile, posts from ‘friends’ and topics of genuine interest are increasingly overshadowed.
2. **Fake News and AI**: The spread of misinformation is out of control. The conversations generated by these posts can be not only diabolical but also frightening, often filled with anger and abuse.
3. **Vicarious Living**: I have come to realise that I need to live my life in a way that suits me, rather than longing for the perfect portrayals of others, complete with flawless skin, shiny hair, and exotic vacations.
I plan to look away from the screen, engage directly with the people who matter, and appreciate the beauty around me. I’ve noticed that I’ve been wasting countless minutes (sometimes hours, according to my screen time notifications) scrolling mindlessly.
So, to all my ‘friends’: you can still reach me through other communication methods—my phone number, WhatsApp, or email. I look forward to re-entering the real world; I think it will be liberating!