When a close friend passed away recently, I did something I hadn’t planned: I logged off social media.
At first, I thought it would be temporary — maybe a day or two. But the more I stayed away, the more I realized how heavy it had been making me feel. Negativity, arguments, and constant comparison filled my feed. It wasn’t helping me grieve. It was draining me.
In the weeks that followed, I redirected my energy toward reflection, home, my clients, and writing. I wrote blog posts, Medium pieces, and even carved out time for my book. Without the constant pull of scrolling, I felt calmer and more focused. That pause gave me space to reset.
And it gave me clarity on something bigger: how I want to use social media moving forward.
The Personal Reset
For me, it comes down to three guiding principles:
- Purpose first. I’ll log on with intention — whether to post, respond to messages, or engage. No more wandering into the apps “just to check.”
- Boundaries matter. I’ll protect my time and energy by setting daily limits. A timer on my phone is a simple but effective tool.
- Connection over noise. I want to share encouragement and insights, not just fill the feed. I don’t need to be everywhere; I need to show up meaningfully where I am.
The Business Lessons
My personal break also highlighted lessons for any business owner.
Marketing. Many entrepreneurs post only when business slows down — a reactive approach that creates inconsistency. A proactive approach means batching content, scheduling in advance, and keeping visibility steady even when life gets busy.
Finances. Just like ignoring your numbers until tax season creates chaos, ignoring your online presence until you “have to” adds stress. Regular check-ins — with your books and your audience — build confidence and stability.
Client Care. When you disappear from social media, clients sometimes wonder if you’ve disappeared altogether. A steady rhythm of updates, insights, or even small check-ins keeps them feeling supported and connected.
Where You Can Start
If you’re wondering how to make social media less draining, here are three steps worth trying:
- Take a short break. Even seven days off can give you perspective on how much mental space scrolling takes up.
- Decide what matters. Choose the platforms that truly serve your business. You don’t need to be everywhere.
- Create a rhythm. Schedule posts in batches and set aside small, focused windows for engagement.
Moving Forward with Intention
Stepping away from social media during a season of grief reminded me that it’s not about abandoning the platforms altogether. It’s about choosing to return with clarity and healthier habits.
For me, that means showing up with purpose, honoring boundaries, and focusing on connection. For you, it might mean something slightly different — but the principle is the same.
Social media doesn’t have to be a drain. With the right approach, it can become a tool that supports both your business and your well-being.