being offline is the new flex

being offline is becoming the new flex and much like the industrial revolution social media has created an economy that people are trying to escape. The industrial revolution created entirely new industries and millions of jobs. But it also came with consequences, pollution, health impacts and dangerous conditions. While most of society had to sit around hoping for a solution from government. Those who could afford to escape the industrial city, they did. Wealthy people escape to the country side so fresh air and nature became this new luxury while poor people were left in the smog. And we're seeing the same same thing happened when it comes to social media. They created this new sector in the marketing space that allowed for content creators, influencers, content specialists, all the things, but at the same time it comes with its own documented consequences, dopamine loops, anxiety, over comparison, damage to our attention spans. And now, just like then, we're seeing people with money and status find ways to opt out. We're seeing people document their digital detox online. People who have more money hire other people to manage their social media presence. So they don't have to be on their phones all the time. Not to mention all the wellness treatments and community events where you're paying tons of money just to be offline. Those that can afford it get to escape while everyone else is left in the smoke. So disconnecting being a privilege isn't this new idea. But what does that mean for everyone else that can't afford to leave?