About a decade ago, I wanted to be a content creator. Or at least, I thought I did. The reason for wanting to be one back then came from a mix of curiosity, creativity, and — if I’m being honest — the appeal of documenting cool experiences and sharing them for the world to see. For a few years, I researched and invested in all kinds of camera gear — where my love for tech gear began — and made travel vlogs on YouTube. I had a blast doing it. I loved coming up with ideas, filming my trips, and editing videos — it let me relive all the adventures again. But I never really liked filming myself. The constant recording, the camera intruding on every moment, became unbearable. It started taking away from the moment more than adding to it. Also, it felt like I was broadcasting my life. Soon, it wasn’t something I enjoyed anymore or found sustainable. So I stopped.
Then came Instagram Stories. At first, it felt like an effortless way to share updates with friends and family. It was fun, I was creating again, and it felt more natural. Filming bits and pieces of an experience with people didn’t feel like I was being intrusive, and my friends and I were doing the same thing and posting our takes of the story — all in the name of documenting memories. But over time, it became performative. Once again, I was constantly broadcasting my life. And worse, I was curating my life instead of living it.
It took me some time to recognize it. Social media is a trap. I didn’t quit right away, but I started to post less and less. One day, I stopped opening the app and turned off all notifications, as I had done with most other apps. It felt like a relief.
Today, I enjoy living a quiet life. It’s been almost two years since I felt the need to post anything on Instagram or Facebook. I still take plenty of photos, from mundane to silly moments, cozy dinners, and unforgettable trips. But they mostly live in my camera roll, and they’re for my eyes only. If I want to let my friends and family know what I’m up to, I just text them or send them photos. When we’re out together, my phone stays out of sight, and they have my full attention. It feels good. I feel whole and happier.
We could all benefit from a life focused on presence and purpose.
Aim for intentional, slow and present living. Make conscious choices about where you put your time and energy. Enjoy life’s small moments. Slow down and be with yourself.
Whether you’re consuming or creating, do it for fulfillment or deeper engagement, not just visibility.
Keep certain parts of your life private. When you do share, it should feel right instead of out of habit or obligation.
You don’t have to disappear or isolate yourself. Engage with people and the world, and have a preference for meaningful, offline interactions rather than constant digital updates. If you live in different cities, call them, send them photos, and let them know you think of them. We often don’t do it enough.
Above all, let your sense of achievement and satisfaction come from within — not from likes, views, or external validation.
We can design a life that feels good — genuine and authentic — rather than one that just looks good from the outside.