Why do you not have social media?

This has been a massive debate for me recently. A conversation that I am sure I will continue to have as I grow and develop both my self and my work.

I used to be (and still am on occasion) addicted to scrolling. I don’t use this word lightly, I have given upwards of 10 hours a day to Tiktok, Instagram and even Youtube Shorts. This was in my lowest moments but even when I lose 2 mindless hours to them now I still feel ashamed.

I do not deny the value of these applications, they help to share, foster community and show the possibilities in this world- and I think that is brilliant! However, they don’t always achieve these goals. The drug-ification of scrolling has led me to have a shorter attention span and less appreciation for the things in my everyday life, both losses which I am working to regain. I cannot feel comfortable with contributing to these online atmospheres currently, perhaps this will evolve with time.

I understand that I may have less reach, but my aim with my work is to be honest. As someone who has grown up in this new, social atmosphere I can see the effects it has had on me and my peers and as earlier stated I cannot knowingly contribute to that.

There is no judgement from me towards anyone who does use these tools, I believe wholeheartedly it is an art form in itself. It is just not the art form for me.

I hope this has helped to answer any questions surrounding this topic, please feel free to reach out if you have more.