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The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Delhi North chapter.

In an era dominated by screens and virtual connections, I’ve chosen to navigate life through a different lens, one that is blissfully devoid of social media. In a world where virtuality often overshadows reality, where digital connections sometimes feel more valuable than personal experiences, my choice might seem unconventional. We live in a society where online validation can easily feel like the ultimate prize, and relinquishing the part of my identity entwined with social media was akin to stepping into the unknown. However, the deeper I ventured into the digital rabbit hole, the more I realized that this ceaseless quest for external approval was obscuring my understanding of my true self. 

Toni Antonucci’s research shows that technology plays a big role in how people use digital devices – whether to maintain or escape from social interactions – and in deciding how much time they spend connecting virtually with others. In this digital age, social media has become a reflection of ourselves, but not in the way we might expect. It’s like a magical mirror, adept at tailoring the content it presents to align seamlessly with our preconceived preferences and beliefs. These algorithms have, over time, become my digital confidants, constantly learning and adapting to my ever-evolving preferences with every click and scroll. In this influence of digital dopamine, it’s all too easy to lose sight of the boundaries that separate the real world from the virtual one, the choices I make from those made for me. 

However, the more I examine this virtual reflection, the more I realize an unsettling truth: this mirror is no passive observer; it’s an active shaper of my perceptions, curating my reality, and fueling my inner desire for validation and affirmation. 

So, I made the conscious choice to unplug, and my life transformed in ways that have been profoundly thought-provoking. Without incessant notifications and endless scrolling, I discovered the art of real human connection. My conversations with friends, both old and new, evolved into something deeper, more heartfelt, and less hurried. I was no longer crafting snippets of communication for the sole purpose of public approval. Instead, I was free to express my thoughts and feelings without the pressure to impress an invisible online audience. 

My time ceased to be fragmented into meaningless seconds of screen time, and, in its place, I found a canvas on which to paint the stories of my life. I delved into books, explored creative pursuits, ventured into the outdoors, and allowed myself to be captivated by the vibrant beauty of the real world. It was a world teeming with color, texture, and life, one that existed beyond the confines of the digital screen. 

Living unplugged also opened the door to self-reflection and introspection. I had the opportunity to listen to my thoughts, to the rhythm of my heartbeat, and the gentle whispers of the wind. The digital facade I had carefully constructed over time began to crumble, and from its remnants emerged an authentic individual, unburdened by the need to fit into someone else’s perception of who I should be. 

This journey is not an outright renunciation of social media, but rather a call to question the nature of our digital engagement. Is it a tool for self-expression and genuine connection, or has it evolved into a system that creates an artificial self-image? In this intricate dance of algorithms and self-disclosure, who is truly leading, and who is following? 

Unplugging is not about escaping the digital world but regaining control and understanding the profound implications of living in this interconnected age. It’s an invitation to reflect on the nature of our digital existence, to balance our online and offline lives, and to make mindful choices about how we engage with the ever-present screen. 

Aarushi Ankita

Delhi North '26

Aarushi Ankita is a Chapter Member at the Her Campus Delhi North Chapter, where she contributes her skills to the Editorial team. Beyond her involvement with Her Campus, Aarushi is a second-year Psychology student at Daulat Ram College. She further extends her influence as the content writer for her college's Gender Champion Cell, where she passionately advocates for gender equality and inclusivity. She is also an engaged member of National Service Scheme and Eartha, actively participating in initiatives aimed at improving society through both written and practical contributions. Outside of her academic and social pursuits, she has received intensive training in Bharatanatyam and playing the piano. She is an avid viewer of acclaimed series such as "Breaking Bad" and "Fleabag", showcasing her appreciation for compelling storytelling. She loves to read books and literature which has naturally led her to cultivate her own writing skills.