I left Facebook the New Year’s Day right before Covid hit. No regrets. I’m on Instagram to follow art, nature, cooking, and other organizations I enjoy, but I’m not sucked into it time wise. I discovered TH-cam about a year into Covid, and find it to be a great way to learn and enjoy individually (vs. corporate) produced content. My preferred habits that I spend the most spare time in are reading print books and walking. I’d like to do more sketching.
I deleted IG for 6 months and I felt so good... came back because I needed to find someone there and well, there I have been since then again. Deleting the app from the phone has helped. Using Safari for it makes it annoying so I avoid it more. I also learn a bit from it but getting rid of it completely is the right thing to do. Need to find the will to do it again.
I'm currently reading an interesting book I borrowed from my local library called, "Stolen Focus, Why You Can't Pay Attention", by Johann Hari. I'd recommend this book, very interesting. For me I've stepped away from social media slowly over the last 10 months, as I found myself scrolling to find interesting things and it was mostly boring. I thought this is just wasting my free time when I could be doing so many more interesting and pleasant things. I paint watercolour, read, do gentle gardening, go to the seaside and take a walk and just sit and admire nature.
Thank you for the book recommendation. I am slowly weening myself off of screens. It is difficult. I took advice to turn off screens 2 hours before bedtime. I usually read but I can also do some artwork or crochet.
I think you are so smart for ditching the social media. I only had a brief experience with it which was enough to cure me. Now that I'm retired and less able to get around, I have downsized to a very small space which suits me well. I spend a lot of time watching TH-cam, but I am very selective in what channels I watch. I've made some good friends around the world, see places I'll never go, and learn about interesting subjects I never had time for. My off-screen interests include drawing, reading, meditating & contemplating (often with my cats), watching the birds and other wildlife at the farm where I live (also with my cats), and nature photography. I keep up with my small circle of long-time friends by phone, email, and occasionally in person. I've found a simpler life is much more rewarding, for me. Skye's look of concern at you "talking to yourself" was just precious.😊 Thank you, Molly, for another wonderful video.🥰
I remember the day I gave up social media. I was in a lovely mood, in my garden. I mindlessly picked up my phone, scrolled through Facebook and saw something that ruined my mood and still upsets me to think about. I left completely for a while and I can honestly say, I changed my life during that time. Like you said, far more nourishing. I do have what I would call a presence, but I only share my own positive things and occasionally something amazing (like the photo of earth from Saturn). I treat FB and insta like an angry wasp I‘m letting out of the window. I have to go near it, but as briefly as possible, and it might sting.
Todays mobile devices are both a blessing and a curse - the world quite literally at your fingertips 24/7, but it seems to be taken for granted that you will be attached to the aforementioned all the time as well. I find it most disheartening when I see couples/families out for a meal spending all the time on their phones instead of talking to one another - why bother going out in the first instance? Me time should be just that, whether it's walking the dog, walking myself or even going to the supermarket - the world doesn't have the right to always tag along.
The cookies looked delicious. I don't do social media, but I love youtube and I can't stop watching and don't want to as there are so many interesting people/channels like yours 😊. One thing I miss where I live is the lack of nature close by. Thank you for this weeks video
I am slowly moving away from using my laptop, I am lucky to have many interests Knitting (very slow at this) embroidery, organic permaculture gardening, I am designing a very small food forest in my back garden and lots more. My worst habit is neglecting these wonderful things for a fix of FB and rubbish TV., but I am working hard to remove myself from these slowly, TH-cam is my favourite as I use this to learn new skills and watch your vlog and meditations music and guided. Determined this year to relax and better self care as well..
I come on and off Social Media depending on my anxiety. It’s definitely worse when I’m on it but when I feel a bit better I get lured back. I think it’s because I feel a constant draw to check it during the day so I find it hard to be present. Also I find that I inevitably compare myself to others and feel inadequate which is ridiculous when you only see the polished surface they chose to share x
I'm with you about needing to physically write more. I used to have really nice printing and handwriting but I find the only time I do it now is to write a quick note or shopping list, everythign else online. And my wrting looks so juvenile now. My skills of forming the letters has regressed. I am committed to changing that. I use a timer on my phone for instagram, youtube and reddit ...the only social media apps I use. I do follow several dozen Tubers who mostly post infrequently and save watching them till weekends to watch while I crochet. I find it really relaxing.
That is so true! I used to do a ton of writing, but now it’s turned into scribbles and scratches. Part of mine is always rushing and not slowing down to be mindful of the lettering. I love channels like this that cause us to take a breath and enjoy the moment instead of always hurrying.
Still off other social media and really don't miss any of it. I am addicted to TH-cam though, I'm only subscribed to 18 channels at the moment (yours being one of them). I'm about to start a gardening project that should keep me busy outdoors this year.
I enjoy TH-cam and will keep watching my favourite subscriptions (including your videos) for inspiration, entertainment and beautiful scenery. I spent a few years with a face book account and had some fun in a gardening group with virtual flower shows. However, I've just changed my mobile phone and haven't yet reconnected to facebook. I'm realising how much time "a little scrolling" actually takes up. I'm enjoying TH-cam videos about "reset days" and they have inspired me to tackle my "to do" list.
There is something so special about a kettle and making tea like that. I was just in England and also really loved ordering tea and getting it in a teapot. Tea
I enjoyed your newsletter about reducing and stopping social media usage, it’s something I’m working on! Thanks for this video, you are inspiring and it’s always great to see beautiful Scotland ❤️
I love the gentle energy of your videos, which helps me to slow down and soak it all in. Thank you for the tips and sharing your experience. I just watched a video you made a few months ago about nature writing. Would you be willing to share some snippets in an upcoming video? I would love to hear those descriptions!
I love TH-cam, I wouldn't want to give that up, I love catching up with people like you Molly and all things scenic... but I definitely could give up FB and Insta.... I'm currently writing a diary for my new Grandson. I started the day we heard he was going to arrive... he was 8 weeks in utero☺️ I gave it to my son and his wife for Christmas to read then give it me back to carry on writing in it. They'll get it again at Christmas and so on. It's been so fun to do and I write it as if he were reading it when he's 16 or so ... I've been able to document all his firsts...
Such a smart beautiful dog ❤️💙💚. Love the list of hobbies…so much more meaningful than wasteful gossip on social media. Hope you get to create some new ones x
I haven't used Facebook since before the pandemic and don't ever use Instagram so it's mainly TH-cam and WhatsApp (exclusively only use it for those I know offline) use to keep connected. Love 🥰 the video.
I think with all social media you need to be mindful of what you’re allowing into your home and your head….I use Facebook for family and a few close friends plus Instagram and TH-cam for inspiration/information relating to my hobbies and interests. The most important thing for me is to stay away from any drama or celebrity gossip!!
Love everything about your videos Molly! So peaceful, inspirational and positive! I quit Facebook last year but then just replaced it with Instagram. Your video a few months back inspired me to quit that too and take back control of my time and spend it in a more fulfilling way. Thanks so much. 💕
I had been off social media for about 6 months until recently and I haven’t even been back on that long and I already am thinking of coming back off and making more changes to my ‘real’ life to make staying off socials easier. I’ve started posting on my YT channel instead (only a short one today!) as I don’t find YT has the same down falls is social media. X
Wish I could give two likes: one for the inspiring video and one for such a cute dog. 😊 I'm still struggling with giving up on social media completely (Instagram and TH-cam being the last two remaining) primarily because of a couple of people I met over there and because I am still trying to find out if it is a useful tool to promote the stuff I do (probably not, but I haven't taken it seriously enough yet). Still, quitting the app formerly known as Twitter in early 22 was one of the best decisions of my digital life, and this year I managed to take a five month TH-cam break. Getting there. Again, thanks for the inspiration!
I'm not sure if this is the same thing but I've decided to have a week away from the TV and just watching the odd TH-cam video that really interests me (including this one)! Only on day 2 but I'm loving it already! Getting out for walks in the beautiful sunshine that we currently have, getting on top of some of the neglected jobs around the house and reading more when I'm not at work.
Completely agree about screentime. I don't use Instagram (I don't like it), but I am on Twitter, but only for the animals/environment, etc. & same for FB; again, only on there for sentient beings... in the hopes that someday, humans will awaken from the madness of literally consuming the planet to death. I'm thankful that I enjoy reading & dabbling in art; hiking, camping, cycling; amateur naturalist. 😊 Hugs! x (love learning to watercolour too.)
Thank you Molly and Sky for a lovely insightful presentation on an important topic! Have you watched 'The Social Dilemma?' It's on Netflix and worth a watch - I watched it recently and was blown away with what the original creators of the social media platforms discussed in this film, particularly with reference to the subconscious, psychologically addictive techniques they use and the impact this is having on humanity. Scary stuff! Here is the trailer - th-cam.com/video/uaaC57tcci0/w-d-xo.html Your message is invaluable and well done for being disciplined and committed to your digital minimalism path! :)
I ve been studying and working for digital services my whole life and currently work as a programmer, my dream is to one day turn off the computer and phone forever
We live in the woods, a very quiet simple life and from the social media I have IG and watch YT, and feel how much energy or time these two take. So I often think about deleting my IG account but am honestly reluctant this will leave me without any feeling of a wider community? not that anyone else would care in the end, it’s just for me.. I also realise the downside on our brains with the fastness of information, our diminishing attention span, the things that come into our brains kinda without our consent? Just wonder if it will make my life poorer or richer really. . grin.. this probably means I am addicted right? darn.. ;)
I remember life before the internet.
What a beautiful but crazy memory to have?
I left Facebook the New Year’s Day right before Covid hit. No regrets. I’m on Instagram to follow art, nature, cooking, and other organizations I enjoy, but I’m not sucked into it time wise. I discovered TH-cam about a year into Covid, and find it to be a great way to learn and enjoy individually (vs. corporate) produced content. My preferred habits that I spend the most spare time in are reading print books and walking. I’d like to do more sketching.
Thank you for your comment!
I deleted Facebook and Twitter in 2020 and last month Instagram .best decision I've made. I will keep you tube because I watch it more than tv. X
Fantastic! 😊💚
So peaceful. I deleted and closed all social media since 2017
I deleted IG for 6 months and I felt so good... came back because I needed to find someone there and well, there I have been since then again.
Deleting the app from the phone has helped. Using Safari for it makes it annoying so I avoid it more.
I also learn a bit from it but getting rid of it completely is the right thing to do. Need to find the will to do it again.
So refreshing. I despise the fact that social media has made lemmings of entire generations.
I'm currently reading an interesting book I borrowed from my local library called, "Stolen Focus, Why You Can't Pay Attention", by Johann Hari. I'd recommend this book, very interesting. For me I've stepped away from social media slowly over the last 10 months, as I found myself scrolling to find interesting things and it was mostly boring. I thought this is just wasting my free time when I could be doing so many more interesting and pleasant things. I paint watercolour, read, do gentle gardening, go to the seaside and take a walk and just sit and admire nature.
Sounds like a great book! Thank you for sharing 😊💚
Thank you for the book recommendation. I am slowly weening myself off of screens. It is difficult. I took advice to turn off screens 2 hours before bedtime. I usually read but I can also do some artwork or crochet.
I love that book! And I'm glad you feel you are putting your time to better use now, without social media.
I think you are so smart for ditching the social media. I only had a brief experience with it which was enough to cure me. Now that I'm retired and less able to get around, I have downsized to a very small space which suits me well. I spend a lot of time watching TH-cam, but I am very selective in what channels I watch. I've made some good friends around the world, see places I'll never go, and learn about interesting subjects I never had time for.
My off-screen interests include drawing, reading, meditating & contemplating (often with my cats), watching the birds and other wildlife at the farm where I live (also with my cats), and nature photography. I keep up with my small circle of long-time friends by phone, email, and occasionally in person. I've found a simpler life is much more rewarding, for me.
Skye's look of concern at you "talking to yourself" was just precious.😊 Thank you, Molly, for another wonderful video.🥰
Thank you lovely! Sounds like a wonderfully balanced mindset :)
I remember the day I gave up social media. I was in a lovely mood, in my garden. I mindlessly picked up my phone, scrolled through Facebook and saw something that ruined my mood and still upsets me to think about.
I left completely for a while and I can honestly say, I changed my life during that time. Like you said, far more nourishing.
I do have what I would call a presence, but I only share my own positive things and occasionally something amazing (like the photo of earth from Saturn). I treat FB and insta like an angry wasp I‘m letting out of the window. I have to go near it, but as briefly as possible, and it might sting.
Skye is such a sweet dog! ☺️
She says thank you! 😊💚
Todays mobile devices are both a blessing and a curse - the world quite literally at your fingertips 24/7, but it seems to be taken for granted that you will be attached to the aforementioned all the time as well.
I find it most disheartening when I see couples/families out for a meal spending all the time on their phones instead of talking to one another - why bother going out in the first instance?
Me time should be just that, whether it's walking the dog, walking myself or even going to the supermarket - the world doesn't have the right to always tag along.
Very true
Well said!
You're inspiring me to get off social media. There are so many other things I could/should be doing!
Aw well I hope you find an approach that works for you :)
Miss Colorado so much. The river scene had me in tears. So greatful for life. Thanks
how do I come along your channel only now? 😮❤ How amazing!! Thank you for sharing some parts of your life with us!! ❤
The cookies looked delicious. I don't do social media, but I love youtube and I can't stop watching and don't want to as there are so many interesting people/channels like yours 😊. One thing I miss where I live is the lack of nature close by. Thank you for this weeks video
Thank you lovely! The cookies were really yummy :)
I am slowly moving away from using my laptop, I am lucky to have many interests Knitting (very slow at this) embroidery, organic permaculture gardening, I am designing a very small food forest in my back garden and lots more. My worst habit is neglecting these wonderful things for a fix of FB and rubbish TV., but I am working hard to remove myself from these slowly, TH-cam is my favourite as I use this to learn new skills and watch your vlog and meditations music and guided. Determined this year to relax and better self care as well..
I come on and off Social Media depending on my anxiety. It’s definitely worse when I’m on it but when I feel a bit better I get lured back. I think it’s because I feel a constant draw to check it during the day so I find it hard to be present. Also I find that I inevitably compare myself to others and feel inadequate which is ridiculous when you only see the polished surface they chose to share x
Hi Molly I gave up Facebook about 8 years ago and don't miss it. Thanks for a lovely vlog.❤
Good for you! 😊💚
Thanks so much Molly, you are an inspiration to living a wholesome life. Love Philippa AUSTRALIA
Thank you!
I'm with you about needing to physically write more. I used to have really nice printing and handwriting but I find the only time I do it now is to write a quick note or shopping list, everythign else online. And my wrting looks so juvenile now. My skills of forming the letters has regressed. I am committed to changing that. I use a timer on my phone for instagram, youtube and reddit ...the only social media apps I use. I do follow several dozen Tubers who mostly post infrequently and save watching them till weekends to watch while I crochet. I find it really relaxing.
That is so true! I used to do a ton of writing, but now it’s turned into scribbles and scratches. Part of mine is always rushing and not slowing down to be mindful of the lettering.
I love channels like this that cause us to take a breath and enjoy the moment instead of always hurrying.
That's so interesting. My handwriting has never been neat but I still find it relaxing! 😊💚
Still off other social media and really don't miss any of it. I am addicted to TH-cam though, I'm only subscribed to 18 channels at the moment (yours being one of them). I'm about to start a gardening project that should keep me busy outdoors this year.
That's a great idea! 😊💚
I enjoy TH-cam and will keep watching my favourite subscriptions (including your videos) for inspiration, entertainment and beautiful scenery. I spent a few years with a face book account and had some fun in a gardening group with virtual flower shows. However, I've just changed my mobile phone and haven't yet reconnected to facebook. I'm realising how much time "a little scrolling" actually takes up. I'm enjoying TH-cam videos about "reset days" and they have inspired me to tackle my "to do" list.
Thank you for your feedback!
Absolutely beautiful video !
There is something so special about a kettle and making tea like that. I was just in England and also really loved ordering tea and getting it in a teapot. Tea
I read Digital Minimalism back when it first came out! I kept thinking of it during this video and happy to hear you mention it :)
As you say it's getting the balance right.
I enjoyed your newsletter about reducing and stopping social media usage, it’s something I’m working on! Thanks for this video, you are inspiring and it’s always great to see beautiful Scotland ❤️
Thank you lovely, so glad you enjoyed :)
I love the gentle energy of your videos, which helps me to slow down and soak it all in. Thank you for the tips and sharing your experience.
I just watched a video you made a few months ago about nature writing. Would you be willing to share some snippets in an upcoming video? I would love to hear those descriptions!
Thank you! I can do and I'm also doing some more nature writing through my newsletter. There's a link in my description if you'd like to subscribe 😊💚
I love TH-cam, I wouldn't want to give that up, I love catching up with people like you Molly and all things scenic... but I definitely could give up FB and Insta....
I'm currently writing a diary for my new Grandson. I started the day we heard he was going to arrive... he was 8 weeks in utero☺️ I gave it to my son and his wife for Christmas to read then give it me back to carry on writing in it. They'll get it again at Christmas and so on. It's been so fun to do and I write it as if he were reading it when he's 16 or so ... I've been able to document all his firsts...
How lovely! 😊💚
Such a smart beautiful dog ❤️💙💚. Love the list of hobbies…so much more meaningful than wasteful gossip on social media. Hope you get to create some new ones x
Thank you! 😊💚
I haven't used Facebook since before the pandemic and don't ever use Instagram so it's mainly TH-cam and WhatsApp (exclusively only use it for those I know offline) use to keep connected. Love 🥰 the video.
I think with all social media you need to be mindful of what you’re allowing into your home and your head….I use Facebook for family and a few close friends plus Instagram and TH-cam for inspiration/information relating to my hobbies and interests. The most important thing for me is to stay away from any drama or celebrity gossip!!
I read a lot of books, do Scottish Country Dancing (I am a German in Germany ;-)) and love to sing in a choir. ❤
Love everything about your videos Molly! So peaceful, inspirational and positive! I quit Facebook last year but then just replaced it with Instagram. Your video a few months back inspired me to quit that too and take back control of my time and spend it in a more fulfilling way. Thanks so much. 💕
That makes me so happy! Good for you lovely :)
Another lovely video, the cookies look great! 🌞 you may have mentioned it before but where is your dark blue dress in the video from? It's so nice!
Thank you! Its a pinafore from Nomad Clothing :)
I had been off social media for about 6 months until recently and I haven’t even been back on that long and I already am thinking of coming back off and making more changes to my ‘real’ life to make staying off socials easier.
I’ve started posting on my YT channel instead (only a short one today!) as I don’t find YT has the same down falls is social media. X
I wish you luck with your YT 😊💚
Wish I could give two likes: one for the inspiring video and one for such a cute dog. 😊 I'm still struggling with giving up on social media completely (Instagram and TH-cam being the last two remaining) primarily because of a couple of people I met over there and because I am still trying to find out if it is a useful tool to promote the stuff I do (probably not, but I haven't taken it seriously enough yet). Still, quitting the app formerly known as Twitter in early 22 was one of the best decisions of my digital life, and this year I managed to take a five month TH-cam break. Getting there. Again, thanks for the inspiration!
Hey there just watch your video and enjoy life I am proud of you
Lovely and inspiring video as always Molly. The writers journal looks great. Sarah x
Thank you lovely! 😊
I'm not sure if this is the same thing but I've decided to have a week away from the TV and just watching the odd TH-cam video that really interests me (including this one)! Only on day 2 but I'm loving it already! Getting out for walks in the beautiful sunshine that we currently have, getting on top of some of the neglected jobs around the house and reading more when I'm not at work.
It sounds wonderful!
Completely agree about screentime. I don't use Instagram (I don't like it), but I am on Twitter, but only for the animals/environment, etc. & same for FB; again, only on there for sentient beings... in the hopes that someday, humans will awaken from the madness of literally consuming the planet to death. I'm thankful that I enjoy reading & dabbling in art; hiking, camping, cycling; amateur naturalist. 😊 Hugs! x (love learning to watercolour too.)
I would like to learn more about Skye. As the Mom of two BC’s, I’d like to know her back story and her personality.
💓💓💓
I have the Lucy Watson, feed me vegan. Good simple recipes.
Its so good!
Thank you Molly and Sky for a lovely insightful presentation on an important topic! Have you watched 'The Social Dilemma?' It's on Netflix and worth a watch - I watched it recently and was blown away with what the original creators of the social media platforms discussed in this film, particularly with reference to the subconscious, psychologically addictive techniques they use and the impact this is having on humanity. Scary stuff! Here is the trailer - th-cam.com/video/uaaC57tcci0/w-d-xo.html
Your message is invaluable and well done for being disciplined and committed to your digital minimalism path! :)
Such an eye opening documentary!
Thank you! Yes I did watch it and thought it was fantastic, if a little concerning 💚
I ve been studying and working for digital services my whole life and currently work as a programmer, my dream is to one day turn off the computer and phone forever
We live in the woods, a very quiet simple life and from the social media I have IG and watch YT, and feel how much energy or time these two take. So I often think about deleting my IG account but am honestly reluctant this will leave me without any feeling of a wider community? not that anyone else would care in the end, it’s just for me.. I also realise the downside on our brains with the fastness of information, our diminishing attention span, the things that come into our brains kinda without our consent? Just wonder if it will make my life poorer or richer really. . grin.. this probably means I am addicted right? darn.. ;)
It is a complicated one, but I always recommend maybe trying for a set amount of time and seeing how you feel? I wish you luck!
You still have Instagram-- are you unsure if you want to delete it?
then uhhhh whats going on here?
That yellow mixing bowl is cute tho
I gave up Farcebook 3 years ago and I haven't regretted it since.
P.S. Dogs are THE best animals/pets! 😍🐶