By Ann Minnett
This Author Deactivated Facebook
I recently deactivated my Facebook accounts, both private and professional. Regurgitated news stories, ad scams for too-good-to-be-true products, and political ‘falsehoods’ from friends and strangers did not add to my quality of life.
Why did I linger on Facebook for over a decade? First, I stayed to communicate with readers on my writer page, although very few engaged me there. The real reason was FOMO–Fear of Missing Out. I wanted to know what my kids and a few writer friends were up to. That part was nice. Lately, I realized 5-7 people have dominated my timeline with food pics, sensational summer hikes, or why/why not wear a mask. Of course, a few just posted selfies every day. I’ll admit to posting my fair share.
Facebook invited me to compare my insides to others’ outsides—an unhealthy trap that left me wanting. Mostly, I wondered how in the world these people kept so busy and had all those friends. Didn’t they ever just read a book? I guess not because few if any posted a selfie holding an open book on the deck overlooking the lake.
Yes, I’m a tad cranky these days.
Anyway, not only do I feel less consumed by social media, but the absence of Facebook has given me back 30 minutes in the morning and untold minutes throughout each day. Win!
If you’d still like to contact me, let’s connect through:
Twitter @ann_minnett
Instagram @annminnett
11-15-20
Postscript:
I’ve learned a few things about myself since I gave up on Facebook.
- I missed photos of my grandkids that don’t seem to make it to my email account.
- There are a handful of people I like to check in on. Some might call this stalking.
- Most posts don’t require my endorsement, displeasure, or opinion. Refreshing!
- FOMO is real in the time of COVID-19.
You guessed it. I can once again be reached at https://www.facebook.com/annminnettwriter
Humbly,
Ann
Montana Women Writers 
Funny. You got me! I did not expect the reversal at the end. As I read your piece, I was trying to imagine not seeing the adventures of my grandkids living on the Arabian Peninsula. Photos would NOT be emailed. That is how I convinced my own mother to get a Face Book page. She complained that her granddaughter did not send photos. “Well, Mom, you’re never going to get a CDs of photos from her trip to Bali. You’ve got to get on FB.”
I have actual friendships with my daughter’s friends this way. Especially ones I have met IRL. I did delete the FB app from my phone, however. This means I check in MUCH less frequently. Perhaps that will be of benefit for you, too.
BTW, I like see your smiling face on FB. Diane