Breaking Up with Facebook

 Admit it. You've been in that relationship. You know the one--you do all the work, trying to keep the attention of the other person, only to end up ignored, left behind, and/or pushed away. You keep holding on for some silly reason...but then one day, you wise up. You see the relationship for what it really is. And you decide to move on.

Such is the case with me and social media.

I was obsessed. Addicted. Spent countless hours scrolling through trivial quiz results, other people's memories and experiences, "selfies" (ugh, I hate that word!), and witty...and some not so witty...thoughts. I'd post something and sit glued to my monitor to watch the likes and comments rack up. And when they didn't, I felt deep disappointment and rejection. I'd base my worth on these pathetic responses.

But I'm done. I'm breaking up with Facebook.

No offense to my "friends"--real or not. If you enjoy Facebook and other social media outlets, I 'm glad. My advice...let it be a tool, not the rule.

No, I haven't conquered this. Goodness, I just realized the problem. There are times when I look at my "Favorites" bar, see the link, and think, "Oooh, I should check out..." Letting go is a process. After being off it for even just a few days, my mind is already clearer. I was scatterbrained like crazy, but now I feel more in control of my thoughts.

I plan to check in on Facebook on Fridays. One time...not throughout the day. I'll resolve any notifications at that time. But I won't be scrolling or liking or commenting. I considered deleting my account, but I have my author page and my critique group to keep up with.

So...to use the cliched line from that relationship...it's not you. It's me.

And really, it is. I need to do this for me.