The connection between Facebook and productivity clicked when I looked at my daily habits. Taking the app off my phone while keeping the mobile browser access changed how I work. Friends might notice I’m not as active, and family sometimes wonders if they’re being ignored (they’re not), but this boundary works wonders. By keeping Facebook to desktop-only and setting time blocks, I’ve found the right balance between staying in touch and on task. Work connections stay strong, client messages flow well, and I get more done daily. Sometimes, the best way to boost your productivity is knowing when to step back.
Drains Battery
A recent report showed that Facebook and Facebook Messenger apps are one of the biggest drains on cell phone batteries. Yes, you can change settings to turn off aspects like video auto-play that drain the battery even more, but the app is so feature-rich that every time you open it, there’s a massive drain on your cell battery.
It’s Not Reality
Think about what you’re posting. How much of your true life are you sharing? Most people only post about significant events (good or bad) or smaller daily updates that present their lives in a particular light. Given that, chances are those updates you’re so intent on commenting and responding to aren’t the whole story. Is it worth your time to focus on snippets of a person’s life?
Keeps You from Enjoying Life
The more time you spend focusing on others’ lives, the less time you spend getting out and living yours to the fullest. This connects to the fact that posts aren’t a full reality. A recent article stated that Facebook (and other social networks) use was linked to a decrease in mental health. Researchers found a connection between consistent Facebook use and a self-reported reduction in overall life satisfaction, physical health, and mental health.
If you want to get more out of life, get more done, and feel more fulfilled and happy every day, you should take the leap and delete the Facebook app as I did. You can still check in from the computer, but you’ll be less focused on the distractions and enjoy your life more.
