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The Feral Astrologer's avatar

Gen X here...I held off getting a cellphone until I was 34 (2011). I knew I'd be thoroughly addicted to it. I was right. I quit IG last fall and reading and writing on Substack feels so much better on my brain, and my nervous system in general. This was after multiple rounds of abstaining for one month, then two, then three...then: why the hell not. My whole life, I've spent hours of my day outside, but still found myself trapped in an addictive cycle with scrolling. I feel free. It's a huge relief.

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Heather B in MT's avatar

YES! Thank you, Dani. I can relate to ALL of this - from recalling the unique sound of dial up AOL to today feeling that I HAVE to do social media as a small business owner (while also knowing that it makes me feel bad and icky - like my brain is all gummed up with junk). UGH. In a serendipitous move, just yesterday I took Instagram and Facebook off my phone. My plan is to only interact with them when I am in dedicated office hours on my computer. We'll see how that goes. The algorithims won't be on my side, but I imagine I'll be happier - and also wondering how to spend my free time. I'll start by starring out the window at the trees for inspiration. And looking for more insightful essays from you. :)

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