Why I stepped back from LinkedIn… (And what we all need to know about social media’s darker side)
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I’m a big advocate for showing up on LinkedIn. For years, I posted five days a week, come rain or shine, inspiration or not.
But recently, I hit pause. Why? Because what started as a positive, energising habit began to feel forced, a chore, and, honestly, a bit inauthentic. I was posting for posting’s sake, not because I had something meaningful to say.
But there’s more to this than just creative fatigue. There’s a darker side to social media that’s worth talking about, and it’s something I’ve been reflecting on a lot lately.
There are hidden costs to being “always on”
Let’s face it: social media is everywhere. Nearly 40% of the world’s population spends an average of two hours a day scrolling, liking, and sharing. That’s a mind-blowing amount of time and energy that we’re giving away, often without realising the impact it’s having on us.
On the surface, social media connects us, helps us build our brands, and opens up opportunities. But dig a little deeper and you’ll find a cocktail of stress, anxiety, and comparison that can chip away at your well-being.
More about stress, mood, and the “comparison trap”
Ever noticed how your mood can tank after a quick scroll through your feed? You’re not alone. Research shows that heavy social media use can leave us feeling more stressed, anxious, and even a bit low. It’s not just the endless stream of “perfect” lives, glamorous selfies and career wins. It’s also the constant pressure to keep up, respond, and perform.
A not so glamorous selfie of me, and yes, I’ve used this on LinkedIn! 😲
And here’s where this point comes into its own… The more platforms you use, the higher your risk of anxiety. One study found that people juggling seven or more social networks were three times as likely to report high anxiety levels.
The issue with algorithms
It’s not just about how we feel, but also what we see. Social media algorithms are designed to show us more of what we already engage with, creating echo chambers that reinforce our own views and can make the world feel a lot more divided than it actually is. Throw in some negative news or a heated debate, and suddenly your feed is a stress minefield.
It can affect your sleep and self-esteem
Let’s talk about sleep. If you’re checking LinkedIn or Instagram before bed, you’re increasing the chances of a bad night’s sleep. The blue light from our screens messes with our natural sleep rhythms, making it harder to wind down. And if you’re lying awake comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s highlight reel? That’s a recipe for restless nights and low self-esteem.
And don’t get me started on those annoying “success stories” we see peppered throughout our LinkedIn news feed. Research shows that seeing highly-edited, curated content can make us feel less attractive, less successful, and just, well less. It’s easy to forget that what we see online is often the best, most polished version of someone else’s life. It’s not real life, just a glossed up version of true reality.
But is social media all bad? Well, not quite…
I know I’ve been painting social media as a bad cousin, but it isn’t evil. It’s a tool. Like any tool, it can be used for good or bad. For every negative experience, there are moments of genuine connection, support, and inspiration. The trick is to use it intentionally, not compulsively. At the moment, I’m going wild for those baby videos where they capture either a well-known clip or comedy character. They really lift my mood and I’m forever sharing them with my friends and husband, much to their annoyance!
Image credit: www.facebook.com
For me, stepping back from LinkedIn was about regaining control. I wanted to reconnect with why I started posting in the first place: to share, connect, and add value, not to keep up with an imaginary algorithm or outdo my next viral post.
So what can we do about it?
Like I did recently, I think it’s important to set boundaries. Give yourself permission to take breaks. You don’t owe anyone daily content. I saw a lovely quote on LinkedIn around the time I chose to step back. “Take the pause, if you need it. Life will always meet you there.” It really reinforced that I was doing the right thing for me.
Have you ever thought about when you last spring cleaned your feed? Unfollow accounts that make you feel “less than.” Follow people who inspire, educate, or genuinely connect.
Now I always go on about showing up as your true authentic self, so if you do decide to post on social media, make sure you’re being real. Share your wins, of course, but don’t be afraid to talk about your struggles too. Authenticity is what people crave. When I do decide to go back on LinkedIn, the first thing I’m going to be talking about is my struggles and how good this break has made me feel.
And lastly, prioritise real-life connections over those you are connected to online. Social media is great, but nothing beats a coffee with a friend or a walk in the park or on the beach with your bestie.
Image credit: www.linkedin.com/in/jobuchanan
Use social media as a tool, not a crutch. If you’re feeling low, anxious, or overwhelmed, step away from it as it’s highly unlikely to serve you. Remember, your mental health comes first above any viral post.
Social media isn’t going anywhere, that’s most certainly true, but how we use it, and how it makes us feel is something we can control. If you’re feeling the pressure of being on social media, like I was, you’re not alone. I hope my confession and explanation of the reasons I chose to take a break from LinkedIn have reassured you. Take a step back, breathe, and remember: you get to decide how (and if) you show up online.
Like what you’ve read?
Jo Buchanan, the author of this blog, is the Founder and Director of TwitTwooYou Limited, a business growth strategic consultancy centred on getting brands noticed. TwitTwooYou offers smart services to help businesses grow and achieve their aspirations and goals. Want to get your brand noticed? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation chat.