Night, Night by Charlie Peacock – Substack

I recently made the big decision to say goodbye to Facebook and Instagram. It’s something I’d been considering for a while, but actually hitting delete was a step I knew would be a challenge. And let me tell you, the urge to mindlessly check for updates is real (I even caught myself doing it right before starting this post).

The science behind our online habits is fascinating. Our brains, particularly the basal ganglia, can get hooked on repetitive activities like scrolling and swiping. These platforms are designed to tap into our dopamine reward system, keeping us coming back for more likes, comments, and shares. It’s like a digital slot machine, with each interaction offering the chance of a small win.

My relationship with Facebook and Instagram has been a mixed bag over the years. I’ve had some incredible opportunities, like working with the Meta Music Initiative to create music with talented artists. But lately, I noticed a drop in engagement on my posts. It turns out, Facebook’s algorithm now prioritizes personal interactions and trending topics over straightforward updates from artists and businesses. This means even if you have a large following, your content might not be reaching the people who want to see it. Frustrating, right?

I tried to work with Meta’s Beta team to provide feedback on how they could better serve musicians, but it was like talking to a brick wall. They were more interested in capturing new fans than nurturing existing ones. Eventually, I realized our goals were just too misaligned. It was time to move on.

Leaving Facebook and Instagram behind isn’t just about breaking free from the dopamine-driven cycle of likes and comments. It’s also about reclaiming control over my online presence and focusing on meaningful connections with my audience. It hasn’t been an easy decision, but I’m optimistic about the future and excited to see where this new chapter takes me.