How I Lost 10% of 2024

As I look back on 2024, a startling realization dawns upon me—10% of my entire year, approximately 2.5 hours every single day, was spent on social media. That’s over 900 hours of my life scrolling through the endless streams of other people’s views, reviews, and opinions. It was not just an investment of my time; it was a silent compromise with my potential.

Social media is a fascinating space. It connects us, informs us, and even entertains us. But for me, it also became a subtle trap—a black hole where time disappeared in tiny increments. A few minutes here, a quick scroll there, and before I knew it, hours had slipped away. At first, it seemed harmless, even necessary. After all, staying informed and connected is vital in today’s world, right? But when I reflected on the hours cumulatively, I asked myself a tough question: What could I have done with those 900 hours instead?

The answer was humbling.

I could have spent that time on things that truly matter:

• Deepening my knowledge by reading more books.
• Building stronger relationships with family and friends.
• Improving my health through exercise or meditation.
• Crafting ideas and projects that could inspire or transform lives.

Instead, I allowed myself to be a passive consumer of content, shaped by algorithms designed to keep me hooked. I wasn’t actively participating; I was observing from the sidelines. Social media isn’t inherently bad, but my usage had become mindless. And that’s what I pledge to change in 2025.

The Plan for 2025: Cutting It Down to 3%

I’ve set a clear goal: to reduce my daily social media usage to less than 3% of my time, or roughly 30 minutes a day. Here’s how I intend to achieve it:

1. Setting Boundaries:

I will allocate specific time slots for social media, treating it like a task rather than a pastime. No mindless scrolling before bed or during meals.

2. Replacing the Habit:

Whenever I feel the urge to scroll, I’ll pick up a book, step outside for fresh air, or jot down my thoughts. This will gradually rewire my brain to seek more meaningful activities.

3. Mindful Consumption:

I’ll focus on consuming content that adds value—educational, inspiring, or directly related to my growth as a motivational speaker. Everything else is noise.

4. Using Tech for Good:

I’ll leverage tools to monitor and limit my usage. Technology is a double-edged sword, and it’s time I use it wisely.

5. Living in the Moment:

By being present in my real-world interactions, I’ll ensure that I derive joy from actual experiences, not curated highlights of other people’s lives.

The Bigger Lesson

This is not just about reducing screen time; it’s about reclaiming my life. Time is our most finite resource, and how we spend it defines who we become. Social media will continue to evolve, but I choose to evolve too—into someone who controls the narrative of their life, rather than watching others write theirs.

In 2025, my focus will shift from being a passive consumer to becoming an active creator. Whether it’s creating impactful content, meaningful memories, or a healthier lifestyle, I’m determined to make every moment count.

So, here’s my challenge to you: What percentage of your life are you spending on things that don’t truly matter? And what will you do to reclaim that time?

Let’s make 2025 the year we take control—not just of our screens, but of our lives. Together, let’s shift from scrolling to soaring.