Reflecting on Social Dilemma Movie

Watching The Social Dilemma in class was both eye-opening and unsettling. It’s no secret that social media is designed to keep us engaged, but seeing the behind-the-scenes strategies laid bare made me pause and reflect on how my habits have evolved over the years.

There was a time when I wasn’t on social media at all for three whole years. During that time, I felt happier and more at peace. My mind felt clearer without the endless notifications or the pressure to constantly scroll. I could focus on the present moment and engage in activities that genuinely brought me joy. However, as my responsibilities increased, I reintroduced social media into my life, and the change has been significant. I use my phone much more now, especially to check social platforms. While I try to set limits, it’s easy to lose track of time when I’m scrolling.

One of my most vivid memories of being disconnected comes from my high school years. I attended a camp on an island in New York where they took our phones for the entire week. At first, it seemed drastic, but it was liberating by the end of the week. I spent time building relationships, exploring nature, and being fully immersed in the moment without the constant buzz of notifications. Back then, I didn’t feel the same dependency I do now.

As I’ve grown older and taken on more responsibilities, the idea of being phone-free even for a few hours feels almost impossible. Whether it’s for work, communication, or simply staying updated, my phone is always within reach. That said, I find comfort in knowing I’m not as reliant as many others my age. It’s common to see people glued to their phones for hours, scrolling through feeds or obsessing over likes and comments.

The worst part is that this dependency isn’t entirely our fault. As The Social Dilemma highlighted, social media platforms are intentionally designed to keep us hooked, shaping our habits and thoughts. While these platforms offer convenience and connection, they come at a cost: our time, mental health, and ability to be present.

Reflecting on my time away from social media, I realize peace often lies in disconnecting. Perhaps the key is finding a balance in using social media as a tool rather than letting it use me. Watching The Social Dilemma reinforced the importance of intentionality and reminded me of the joy that comes from stepping away, even for just a little while.