There’s something intriguing about people who choose to stay away from social media.
They aren’t concerned about posting updates or chasing likes. Instead, they prefer to keep their lives private, embracing the real world around them.
But have you ever wondered what the daily habits of these social media abstainers are? What makes them tick, and how do they function in a world that seems to thrive on oversharing?
In this article, we’re going to delve into the 8 usual habits of those who shun social media in favor of privacy. It’s a fascinating journey that might just make you rethink your own social media habits. So, let’s dive in!
1) Embrace solitude
We often perceive solitude as something negative, associating it with loneliness. But for people who stay away from social media, solitude is a cherished ally.
They understand the value of spending time alone, whether it’s for reflection, relaxation, or simply enjoying their own company. This isn’t about being anti-social; it’s about being comfortable in your own skin.
These individuals usually have a routine where they set aside time for themselves every day. It could be reading a book, gardening, or going for a walk – anything that doesn’t involve scrolling through feeds or posting updates.
This habit of embracing solitude not only gives them a sense of peace and contentment but also helps them stay focused and productive. It’s a habit that many of us could learn from, even if it means just switching off our devices for a few hours each day.
2) Prioritize face-to-face interaction
For those who keep their lives away from the glare of social media, face-to-face interaction is the preferred form of communication.
I remember a friend of mine who doesn’t have any social media accounts. While some found it strange, I’ve always admired his ability to maintain deeper connections with people.
Instead of sending messages or commenting on posts, he’d prefer to meet in person – even if it meant going out of his way. He always said, “There’s something about seeing someone’s expressions and hearing their laughter that no emoji can replicate.”
This habit of prioritizing real-life interactions over digital ones doesn’t just lead to better relationships; it also gives them a richer experience of life. It’s a reminder for all of us that sometimes, it’s worth stepping out from behind our screens and experiencing the world directly.
3) Value privacy
Those who choose not to use social media often have a high regard for privacy. They understand that every status update, every check-in, every photo shared, is a piece of their personal life that becomes public.
In this digital age, where data breaches and identity theft are real concerns, their choice can seem quite wise. For instance, did you know that according to a study by the Pew Research Center, about 60% of Facebook users set their profile to private? This suggests that even regular social media users are becoming more conscious about their online privacy.
Prioritizing privacy doesn’t mean they’re secretive or have something to hide. They simply choose to keep certain aspects of their lives away from public scrutiny. This respect for privacy often extends to others too, resulting in relationships built on mutual trust and respect.
4) Cultivate mindfulness
People who don’t use social media often excel at being present in the moment. They aren’t constantly distracted by notifications or thoughts of how a particular moment could be framed for social media.
This habit of being mindful, of truly experiencing each moment as it comes, has numerous benefits. Studies have shown that mindfulness can reduce stress, improve concentration and overall well-being.
Whether they’re savoring a meal, enjoying a sunset, or engaged in a conversation, they fully immerse themselves in the experience without the need to document it or share it online. This habit of mindfulness allows them to enjoy life more fully and deeply.
5) Nurture meaningful relationships
In a world where social media often measures friendship by the number of followers or likes, people who stay away from these platforms tend to build fewer, yet more meaningful relationships.
They value the quality of connections over quantity. They invest time and energy in nurturing relationships with their loved ones, creating bonds that are deep and lasting.
Instead of wishing friends a happy birthday with a quick post or message, they’ll make a phone call or arrange a meet-up. These small but significant gestures show their commitment to maintaining genuine connections.
In essence, they remind us that real-world relationships are about more than just social media interactions. They’re about being there for each other through thick and thin, sharing joys and sorrows, and creating memories together. And in the end, isn’t that what truly matters?
6) Balance work and life
People who don’t use social media often have a better work-life balance. With no social media distractions, they’re able to focus more on their work during office hours and also disconnect when they’re off the clock.
I learned this the hard way. I used to spend hours scrolling through social media, even during work, causing my productivity to plummet. It was only when I took a break from these platforms that I realized how much time I had been wasting.
This newfound time allowed me to focus on my work and also spend quality time with my family. The lack of constant notifications meant that I could truly switch off after work, leading to a healthier work-life balance.
This habit of separating work and personal time is something that many of us struggle with, especially in this digital age. But it’s a valuable lesson that we can learn from those who have chosen to stay away from social media.
7) Practice digital detox
The concept of a ‘digital detox’ is gaining popularity, and those who don’t use social media are usually ahead of the curve. They’re well-acquainted with the benefits of taking a break from digital devices and the internet.
This habit of disconnecting allows them to reduce stress, improve mood, sleep better, and increase their overall productivity. They understand the importance of unplugging from the digital world to recharge their minds and bodies.
Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, meditating, or simply sitting in silence, these periods of digital detox help them reconnect with themselves and the world around them. It’s a healthy habit that more people could benefit from incorporating into their lives.
8) Live authentically
Perhaps the most striking habit of people who don’t use social media is their commitment to living authentically. They aren’t concerned with crafting a perfect image for the world to see. Instead, they focus on being true to themselves and living a life that aligns with their values and beliefs.
This authenticity extends to every aspect of their lives, from their relationships to their hobbies and work. They don’t feel the need to compare themselves with others or seek validation from likes and comments.
Living authentically gives them a sense of freedom and contentment that is often missing in today’s image-obsessed culture. It allows them to be who they truly are, without any pretense or fear of judgment.
In conclusion: It’s all about choice
While the world around us becomes increasingly digital, it’s important to remember that there are people who consciously choose to stay away from social media. And as we’ve seen, this choice is often accompanied by habits that contribute to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
This choice isn’t about rejecting technology or living in the past. Rather, it’s about choosing authenticity over superficiality, meaningful interactions over fleeting connections, and privacy over public display.
As Henry David Thoreau once said, “The cost of a thing is the amount of what I will call life which is required to be exchanged for it, immediately or in the long run.”
In the context of social media, the ‘cost’ can be time, attention, privacy, and even mental health. So perhaps the question we need to ask ourselves is: Is the cost worth it?
As you go about your day, scrolling through feeds and posting updates, take a moment to reflect on this. Remember that just like those who don’t use social media, you too have a choice. A choice in how you use your time, how you interact with others, and ultimately, how you live your life.
