Social media isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. There are those who prefer to keep their lives private rather than sharing every moment online.
These silent observers, or ‘lurkers’ as they’re commonly known, often exhibit certain traits that set them apart from the rest of us who are constantly tweeting, posting, and sharing.
I’ve compiled a list of 10 such traits that are often present in individuals who avoid posting on social media. If you’re wondering what makes these private individuals tick, keep reading.
Let’s get started.
1) They value real-world interactions
Let’s start with the basics.
People who prefer to stay off social media usually place a higher value on face-to-face interactions. You won’t find them scrolling through their phone in social situations. Instead, they’re fully present and engaged with those around them.
These individuals understand that a ‘like’ or a ‘share’ can never replace the warmth of a real-life conversation. They prefer to create memories without the need for digital validation.
While many of us rush to post our experiences online, these people are content to simply live in the moment. Their actions demonstrate that they believe life is to be lived, not posted.
They remind us that sometimes, the best moments are those that are shared between just a few, not broadcast to many.
2) They appreciate solitude
From personal experience, I can attest that those who prefer to stay off social media often have a deep appreciation for solitude. My friend Sarah is one of these people.
Sarah has never been a fan of social media. She’s never had a Facebook account, doesn’t know what tweeting means, and the only Instagram she knows is the one on my phone when I show her funny cat videos.
Instead of spending time online, Sarah loves to read. She’ll often spend her entire weekend engrossed in a novel or exploring nature by herself. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.
She says that solitude allows her to reconnect with her thoughts and feelings, something she felt was being drowned out by the constant noise on social media.
Sarah’s example taught me that solitude isn’t loneliness. Instead, it’s a space for self-reflection and growth. It’s a trait admired by many, but practiced by few. And those who prefer to stay off social media seem to have mastered it.
3) They are less stressed
While social media can be a great way to stay connected, it can also be a major source of stress. The constant need to keep up with the latest trends, the pressure of maintaining a perfect image, and the fear of missing out can all take a toll on mental health.
On the other hand, people who keep their lives offline tend to experience lower levels of stress. A study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that participants who limited their social media use to 30 minutes per day felt significantly better after the three-week period, reporting reduced loneliness and depression.
These individuals understand the value of disconnecting from the virtual world to maintain a healthier, more balanced life. They choose to stay away from the potential stress triggers that social media can often present.
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4) They have a stronger sense of self
People who don’t post on social media often have a more solid sense of self. They aren’t constantly exposed to the comparison game that social media can encourage, which can lead to a more stable self-image.
These individuals don’t rely on likes, shares, or comments for validation. Their self-worth is not tied to their online presence. Instead, they draw their confidence from their accomplishments, values, and relationships in the real world.
They understand that everyone is on their own unique journey and there’s no point comparing one’s life to the curated highlight reels of others. This sense of intrinsic self-worth and authenticity sets them apart.
5) They value privacy
This one seems obvious, but it’s worth mentioning.
People who stay off social media cherish their privacy. They believe that not every aspect of their lives needs to be shared with the world. They prefer to keep certain things close to their chest, sharing them only with those they trust.
These individuals understand that once something is posted online, it’s out there forever. They choose to retain control over their personal information rather than handing it over to the digital realm. Their cautious approach towards privacy often extends to other areas of their lives as well, making them more mindful about the information they share and who they share it with.
6) They cherish authentic relationships
People who stay private on social media often place a high value on genuine, deep relationships. They prefer a few close connections over hundreds of online acquaintances.
They believe in the beauty of connection that comes from shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and mutual respect and understanding. These people invest their time and energy into nurturing these bonds.
Instead of wishing someone a happy birthday with a quick message on their timeline, they’ll pick up the phone or meet in person to convey their wishes. Instead of commenting on a friend’s achievement post, they’ll celebrate with them in real life.
In a world where digital interactions often replace face-to-face contact, these individuals remind us of the irreplaceable value of authentic human connection.
7) They live in the present
I’ll be honest, I’ve often caught myself lost in the digital world, scrolling through endless feeds, only to realize that I’ve missed out on the world around me.
People who keep their lives off social media have a knack for living in the present. They don’t feel the need to capture every moment for an online audience. Instead, they fully immerse themselves in their experiences.
They understand the value of being present and living in the now. Instead of viewing life through a screen, they choose to experience it with all their senses. This mindfulness and presence of mind make their experiences richer and more fulfilling.
8) They’re often more informed
It may seem surprising, but people who avoid posting on social media can actually be more informed. Instead of getting their news from potentially biased or sensationalized social feeds, they tend to seek out information from more reliable sources.
These individuals are likely to read newspapers, listen to podcasts, or watch documentaries to stay updated. They understand the importance of being well-informed and make conscious efforts to gather accurate information from trusted sources.
This approach not only keeps them updated but also provides a more balanced and nuanced understanding of the world around them.
9) They have more free time
It’s no secret that social media can be a massive time sink. Endless scrolling can eat up hours before you even realize it.
People who avoid posting on social media often find themselves with more free time. Time that they can use to pursue hobbies, learn new skills, or simply relax and unwind.
Instead of catching up on the latest online trends, they might be found engrossed in a book, practicing a musical instrument, or enjoying a long walk in nature.
Stepping away from the non-stop digital world allows them to make the most of their time and live life at their own pace.
10) They prioritize mental well-being
Perhaps the most important trait of those who stay off social media is their commitment to mental well-being. They recognize that constant exposure to the perfect lives portrayed on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, or dissatisfaction.
By choosing not to participate in this digital facade, they minimize these negative effects. They focus on cultivating a positive mindset, practicing self-care, and maintaining a healthy life balance.
Their decision to stay private is a conscious choice to prioritize their mental health, a choice that deserves respect in our increasingly connected world.