I got my first phone when I was 12. Instagram and Snapchat at 13. Even younger than that, I was watching videos on YouTube and Vine (may she rest in peace). Needless to say, I can’t imagine my life without having instant access to the internet and social media. 

So, when I deleted all social media apps off my phone last week, I knew I was in for a rude awakening.

According to the Pew Research Center, in 2023, 78% of adults age 18-29 use Instagram and 62% use TikTok, both far higher than any other age group. Before deleting those apps off my phone, I was spending four to six hours a day on social media. 

So, what did I learn from being forced back into the dark ages with nothing to satisfy my shorter attention span?

First off, how much I like to read.

I was an avid reader as a child who would leave the Chapel Hill Public Library with enormous stacks of books, only to return a few days later because I had finished them. This past week, I went to the library to check out some thrillers and historical fiction novels, not really expecting much, as I rarely have time to read nowadays with how busy my schedule is.

Or at least, I thought I had no time. 

Without being on my phone 24/7, I was astounded at how much free time I had. I read three books this past week after not reading for fun for months. My favorite one was  “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles, and now I totally understand why the book is so critically acclaimed.

Social media has stolen time from hobbies that I really care about, but also time meant for studying. I studied more this week than I have since coming to UNC (embarrassing but true). I will admit that in the past, there were times in class where I would scroll through X or Instagram and sort of pay attention. Without being tempted to go on social media, I have been more focused in my classes, and I am retaining information better than ever before.