Four Ways to Limit Social Media Use

July 13, 2020
Posted by FeelGood Fibers

Has 2020 got you spending more time on social media? You’re not alone. Depending on what source you consult, up to 51% of US adults are using social media at higher rates during the pandemic. That’s a lot of time spent scrolling . . . that could have been spent creating.

But we get it. With so much uncertainty in the world, it’s hard to put the phone or tablet down and get back to doing. These 4 tips can help you to limit your social media use:

1. Set Boundaries

Depending on the kind of phone you have, you can track the amount of your social media usage automatically. If you have an iPhone (as we do here at FeelGood Fibers HQ), you can access real-time reports to let you know exactly how you’re spending your time online. You can also use Screen Time to set limits for your most-used apps.

You can also purchase apps such that will track your time according to the limits that you impose on yourself. Once you reach your limit, the app will not allow you back into your social media for the day.

2. Out of Sight, Out of Mind

If you open your social media apps out of boredom or habit, it may help to move them to another page than your home screen. That way you won’t be tempted to open them out of mindless habit. You’ll have to actively look for them to open. (This has worked particularly well for us!)

3. Turn Off Notifications

Do you get a notification every time someone likes your post? Notifications are meant to be a distraction. If you turn them off, you’ll be less tempted to check in every time you see a notice pop up. (Not that we’re talking from experience or anything).