I Took a Break from Social Media: Here's My Story

I needed a break. The burnout was noticeable. Social Media was the obvious first thing to go. So, I focused on things away from the computer screen. I also retreated to my favorite place, the outdoors.

Recently, I spent some time on the ocean. It was a beautiful day, giving me time to think while our photography group searched for wildlife. As I thought, I began to recognize something. My relationship with technology could be listed as "It's Complicated." 💔

I doubt I’m alone in feeling this way. Recent articles have shared two themes: the internet used to be fun and our growing isolation despite constant connection.

Mid-thought, a majestic baby humpback appeared and brought me back to reality.

I retreated to my thoughts after a few more breeches and extraordinary captures. I agree with the articles I've read. The internet used to be a source of fun, connecting us with strangers who shared similar interests. But now we seem to scream into the void, hoping someone hears us. I’ll skip the 'back in my day' spiel--just kidding! I have many fond dial-up memories. 🎶

For me, it was chatting with X-Files fans on IRC and web design on ICQ. As my interest in tech grew, at 16, I started my own web hosting business. I loved technology back then.

As our search for more humpbacks resumed, I enjoyed my nostalgic tech moments and wondered what it meant for me now and in the future. I'm not 100% sure, but I think it means returning to the basics—niche communities around topics I enjoy, such as productivity and photography.

One thing I know for sure. This new AI era has me excited. I sat in front of the computer for hours one night, building an AI bot. It was the 1st time I've sat in front of my laptop for fun in quite some time. 🤖

I also thought about the rewarding nature of assisting fellow creators in their business journeys, offering valuable feedback based on my many years of experience, and witnessing their efficiency-driven successes translate into positive outcomes. It's genuinely something I enjoy.

As the sun began to set, our boat turned toward shore. But the baby humpback had a final surprise. For 20 minutes, a small group of us reveled in the playful whale's antics during golden hour—no cell service, no app notifications--just us and the soothing sea's symphony.

I got back to my car with a smile on my face. First, I had this beautiful moment at sea. Second, while riding the waves, I reconsidered how I view technology. Maybe it doesn't have to be "It's Complicated."

- Less useless scrolling, more time with purpose-driven communities
- Continue to learn and adapt to the rapidly changing AI era
- Most notably, share knowledge to help others succeed

If this resonates with you, e-mail me. I'm always up for a good chat about the above topics. Or feel free to simply say hello. 🙂 

But Wait - What is this newsletter?

Great question! The original intent hasn’t changed. I’m going to resume where I left off. Continuing to grow the current community of 6,000+ other creators & business owners signed up for Optimize Your Day. 🚀

Let’s discuss boosting profits with smart optimization, automated workflows, AI, and personal productivity. Please don’t leave me hanging. I hope this isn’t a constant one-sided conversation. Feel free to ask questions, share wins, productivity hacks, or whatever you think others may be interested in. I’ll share your socials and business links along with your topic. (Note: Optional. You can also remain anonymous.)

What to expect?

I will ease into this with a goal of one e-mail a week. Writing is a skill I’m working on. Please be patient with me and don’t hesitate to provide feedback.

I also plan to run polls, surveys, and a referral program. You’ll see a poll at the end of this e-mail and details about the referral program. I’d appreciate it if you answered the 1-second poll. I want to gauge where everyone’s productivity skill level is. There is no wrong answer. We all started somewhere.

Community

I’d be negligent if I didn’t give a shout-out to @glennwrites1, @LaddLaddLadd, and @TatsukiThomas, as well as the fantastic creator community they founded. They probably don’t know this, but a brief DM reminded me about their community. That also helped me realize a community of shared interests is crucial to making the internet fun again.

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That’s a wrap! The next e-mail will be less about me and more about our shared interests. Again, don’t hesitate to e-mail me and say hello.

Stay Well,
Zach

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