If social media is a part of your job, you’ll know social media is a 24/7, 7 days a week, non-stop job. From creating content to posting and then engaging with your community, it might feel like you can’t ever take a real break and unplug.
Not being able to unplug can affect your mental health. which is something that I’ve been trying to make a priority this year. I’ve hit many points where I get soooo incredible burnt out from social media and just need a break. Unplugging from your device and the internet can be incredibly therapeutic AND necessary for your health. Hence, I’m sharing some tips of mine with you!
Here are my tips to unplug and take a break from social media:
Be Committed + Plan Ahead as Much as You Can
If you know you’ll be away or going to take a much-needed break from social media, plan ahead! I usually know ahead of time when I’ll be travelling and prep content prior to that. That said, that doesn’t usually apply to burn out.
Sometimes, when I can see signs in myself that tell me I need a break, I usually just shut off on my social apps. An important step is to acknowledge that you need a break and be committed if you decide to take a break. The best breaks I’ve had vary: sometimes it just means I stop watching IG stories, or stop posting but still look at other photos OR sometimes it means to completely stay off it for as long as you need. It’s all about balance; something I’m still working on.
If you do want to plan ahead, there are tools like Hootsuite and Later where you can schedule content ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about posting while you’re gone. Enjoy your time off with the peace of mind everything is still going on!
Get Some Help From a Temporary “You”
One of the best things I’ve done for myself is hire help for my blog. It allows me to take a step back and not be “on” all the time. It also helps when I have another set of eyes while creating content.
Even if you can’t hire someone permanently, think about getting a temporary virtual assistant to help when you need a break from social media. They can make sure your posts go out as planned, engage with your audience and keep everything running smoothly.
Create a little onboarding package with instructions explaining your voice, brand and guidelines and sit down with them for a quick call before you go. Give a quick debrief and answer any questions they may have. Having help keeps me accountable to my break which was an important part to my 2019 resolutions.
Most virtual assistants have social media experience so you’re in good hands. Best part? If all goes well, you’ll have a go-to for next time.
Have a Back Up Plan, Just in Case
Just like with other emergencies, it’s important to have a plan in place just in case things go wrong (especially if social media IS your job). Your plan should go over a few things:
What is actually considered an emergency:
Give a rundown to your assistant or team of what actually makes an emergency. Did a big post for a brand collaboration fail to post? Is there something incorrect with a caption or photo? Decide what is important enough to interrupt your break
How to contact you:
When I’m on vacation, I tend to turn off notifications from social media, email, phone calls etc. If an emergency does happen, I need to let my assistant know where they can reach me. I like to have them send me an email with the subject like SOCIAL MEDIA – URGENT so I know something BIG is going on. Having it directly in the subject line is perfect so I can take a quick glance while checking my phone.
Make sure everyone on your team is informed of the plan before you leave. It’s just another way to ensure everything is running smoothly while you take a break from social media
Unplug by Blocking/Deleting your Apps or turning on Airplane Mode
This is a hard one. I get sucked into scrolling aimlessly through Instagram for hours on end when I should be enjoying the experiences in front of me or being present. I used to be much worse, where at events I’d be caught up posting stories and not interacting with people. Now, I take videos and save them to post later on.
One thing you can do to unplug is to block certain apps on your phone or just temporarily delete them. If you can’t access social media, you won’t be tempted to work. You can always post after you enjoy your break. It may seem a little extreme, but it allows me to use my phone for photos and maps without the temptation of everything else.
If you really can’t unplug from social media, set yourself boundaries around when and how often you can check social media.
Being specific with a time allowance could help you stay accountable but still give yourself some time to indulge and keep up with what’s going on.
Another great option is to turn on airplane mode! You won’t get any notifications but still be able to use wifi when necessary. I love doing this because it saves battery and it helps me unplug without noticing. It’s an instant way to unplug and relax.
Find a New Activity to Engage In + Be Present
One of the reasons I unplug is for my mental health. There are times where I find that I displace my frustration that stems from social media to the people around me. This is extremely unhealthy but I’m glad my background in Psychology has helped me be more mindful and conscious of what I do.
What was a bad habit of mine, has turned into a good reminder every time I feel myself slipping back to a bad routine. I place a whole lot more value in the people around me as opposed to the likes online, and it is doing wonders for my mind and emotions. Practicing gratitude is so key.
Getting Creative with my Hands
Getting physically creative is such an amazing feeling and really gets you thinking in a different way. I’ve done classes like basket weaving or flower crown making while in Hawaii. I’ve also seen friends who do a cooking class while their away on vacation. Not only is it a unique experience, but it’s a way to get creative without having to be in front of a screen
Getting Active and Exploring
Physical activity does wonders for your mental health. When I’m away, I love to explore local Vancouver areas by walking instead of taking a car. Walking helps me clear my head and enjoy the fresh air. Getting active releases happy endorphins which will help you relax and feel good. It also gives you a different view of tourist attractions and major landmarks. Feel like a tourist and get lost!
Actually Treat Yourself and Relax
Of course, we can’t forget about the best kind of self-care, to treat yourself! My favourite thing to do while on vacation is to get a massage or visit the spa. You can’t help but feel zen and relaxed in a spa environment. It can get pricey but it’s well worth it. See if your hotel offers discounts for hotel guests or do some research with groupon beforehand. You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to give yourself a little pampering.
Settle Back into Your Routine Slowly
You might feel the need to jump back in right away and begin posting, checking emails and engaging right away. Don’t forget that you took a break for a reason! I always plan my content to reach a few days after my vacation so it gives me time to slowly adjust back into my schedule.
If you have jet lag, this is especially important. You just recharged, don’t stress all over again! Take it step by step to get back into your routine. I have a morning routine that helps me stay productive throughout the day that I like to stick to.
I know social media can feel like a non-stop job sometimes but we all deserve a break. Just because you take time for yourself doesn’t mean everything will crash and burn.
It’s essential to stop, relax and recharge to prevent burning yourself out. It also keeps your creative juices flowing.
There was a time when I no longer enjoyed creating content because it was stressing me out and I felt like I was consumed by it. After taking some time to myself, I found I was more productive, and I was able to create things I actually enjoy.
I hope these tips help you on your next break from social media. Listen to your body and take a vacay! You deserve it!
Till next time,
xoxox Sam