Why I’m Stepping Back From Social Media and AI

Social media, the world’s favorite drug. Artificial intelligence, society’s second brain. And technology, the face of our two greatest addictions.

The algorithms took our attention and individuality while chat boxes slowly weaken our cognitive skills. Although the truth isn’t pretty, this is the reality of our modern society. About two-thirds of people worldwide are affected by either social media or artificial intelligence. I can admit that I’m a part of the majority. I can admit I have an unhealthy obsession. And I can’t help but admit that I do not appreciate this technology-centered lifestyle anymore.

I want to find my way back to the level of creativity and imagination I once had before. I want to find my peace. I want to find my passions. I want to find my ability to problem-solve on my own. To think without leaning on a tool to think for me. To allow myself to strengthen my skills instead of strengthening an AI’s abilities. And I want to accomplish this long before it’s too late. I want to start today.

Starting for me looks like setting a strategy. One that works, one that will last. I don’t want to fall back into old habits within three months. I want this to become a habit that stays for life.

For social media, I want to keep a device solely for that purpose. One that I don’t bring everywhere, only when needed. For the next year, I want to become inactive on my personal accounts and focus on this new chapter of my life. The only accounts I should be active on are ones relating to my recently published book. And even then, that is only one or two platforms that I should be active on for only a few hours a week.

For AI, I want to set strict rules on the way I can use it. I no longer want to use AI to edit my writing, create images, or come up with ideas. Doing so takes away from my creativity. AI’s ideas are reused. I only want to produce authentic ideas coming from myself. When using an image, I don’t want to utilize AI because it steals from artists. I want to become the artist. I want to get creative and bring back taking time when it comes to creations. Certain things like making spreadsheets or scanning the internet for research are okay, but when it comes to using AI to think for me, that’s where I draw the line.

Being intentional, tactical, and more in person will help me grow and become a healthier and stronger version of myself. I want to take care of my mind and my well-being as much as my physical health, and starting young by controlling my technology use will help my brain stay strong and active as I continue learning and experiencing new things. I chose these two goals to accomplish first because once these are accomplished, the other ones will become easier as I free up time and become more present again.

And who knows, I may not be able to change the way technology is used worldwide, but I hope to inspire the people around me as I start this journey of being more present to live a more purpose-filled life.