Life Without Social Media

In partnership with

This cannabis startup pioneered “rapid onset” gummies

Most people prefer to smoke cannabis but that isn’t an option if you’re at work or in public.

That’s why we were so excited when we found out about Mood’s new Rapid Onset THC Gummies. They can take effect in as little as 5 minutes without the need for a lighter, lingering smells or any coughing.

Nobody will ever know you’re enjoying some THC.

We recommend you try them out because they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. And for a limited time, you can receive 20% off with code FIRST20.

Shop Now.

In a world where social media has become a cornerstone of daily life, I find myself standing on a stage as a millennial computer scientist and author, with a unique perspective—I have never had a social media account. This decision was not planned but stemmed from a somewhat random, immature professional jealousy when I first encountered Facebook in college. Everyone around me seemed hooked on it, but from an objective standpoint, I sensed it could be dangerous, and I decided not to join.

I’m here today to share two messages. First, despite never having had a social media account, I’m doing just fine. I still have friends, stay informed about the world, collaborate globally as a computer scientist, and find plenty of entertainment options. In fact, I believe I’m better off without social media—happier, more focused, and more successful professionally. My second goal is to convince you that you, too, might be better off if you quit social media.

Let’s address three common objections people have when I suggest quitting social media. The first is the belief that social media is a fundamental technology of the 21st century, and rejecting it would be like refusing to use modern conveniences. I argue that this is nonsense; social media is not a fundamental technology but an entertainment product designed to capture your attention and data for profit. It's no different from choosing one form of entertainment over another, and rejecting it should not be seen as a radical stance.

The second objection is that social media is vital for professional success. Many fear that without a strong social media presence, they will disappear from the professional landscape. Again, I think this is misguided. In a competitive economy, what truly matters is the ability to produce things that are rare and valuable—skills and work that are hard to replicate. Social media use, on the other hand, is easy to replicate and offers little value. True professional success comes from deep, concentrated work that creates unique value, not from the number of followers on social media.

The third objection is that social media is harmless and enjoyable. Some argue that it provides light entertainment and a way to stay connected, so what's the harm? But this perspective overlooks the documented negative impacts of social media. It is designed to be addictive, fragmenting your attention throughout the day, which can permanently reduce your ability to concentrate—a skill essential in our economy. Moreover, social media is linked to increased feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anxiety, especially among younger generations who are the most saturated with this technology.

Life without social media may seem daunting at first, but it can be quite positive. Without social media, I’ve found my life to be more productive and peaceful. I manage to complete my work efficiently, maintain deep concentration, and enjoy leisure time that is restorative and fulfilling. The absence of constant stimuli reduces background anxiety, making life without social media a refreshing alternative.

In conclusion, I believe many more people would be better off if they chose to quit social media. It is not a fundamental technology; it does not guarantee professional success, and it brings significant harms that outweigh its perceived benefits. I hope you will consider this perspective and think carefully about the role social media plays in your life. If you disagree, feel free to share your feedback—just direct it toward Twitter. Thank you.