Social media—everyone knows what it is, whether it's Instagram, Snapchat, or any other platform. We are all familiar with the simple yet piercing notification sound, which we hear constantly daily. Well, I don’t anymore.

Last year, I made the decision to turn off all of my social media notifications, and I have noticed a significant impact on my life. Although this change felt strange at first, I quickly realized that I had stopped constantly picking up my phone and craving the validation that comes with the constant communication we have become so accustomed to. Instead, I learned to value each conversation and its importance, responding when I chose to rather than feeling pressured to reply immediately.

Now, I understand some of you may still not be convinced, so let me explain it from the perspective of my role as a regional mazkirah. At first, I didn’t think I could balance being in a position that mainly focused on social media while simultaneously turning off my notifications. However, I learned that my relationship with social media became much healthier as a result. Instead of comparing myself to others and engaging in ‘doom scrolling’—a term used to describe the endless scrolling one may partake in—I found that I could increase the value of my social media experience while significantly lowering the amount of time I spent on my phone.

I will admit that from time to time, when I hear the Snapchat bell or a text ping, I instinctively reach for my phone. However, overall, I have recognized a significant change in my screen time habits. It wasn’t an easy change to make, but I would recommend it to anyone looking to make a positive shift in their lives. My advice for those who choose to embark on this journey is to keep pushing through the initial challenges. It’s not easy at first, but in the end, limiting your phone usage is incredibly rewarding. It not only frees up time for other hobbies and homework but also allows for more meaningful in-person conversations, fostering deeper connections with the people around you. Embracing this change has truly transformed my daily routine and overall well-being.