It sounds like you inadvertently stumbled into a test pattern for Newport’s work, Sara– I think he’d agree that three weeks away was enough to re-wire your brain to desire something more long-term and creative over short bursts of social content. I can’t say I’ve been totally successful at staying away from Facebook, and I don’t think I’d delete it completely, but turning off notifications has been a big deterrent. I feel more relaxed at home, because I’m only interrupted by texts or calls, and I feel more empowered to turn off the phone when I’m working. I get enough interruptions from being a mom of two little kids!

It reminds me of something I read recently in Sage Cohen’s “Fierce on the Page.” At one point, she says, “Research suggests that it takes three weeks to cement a new habit.” That’s the amount of time I was away from social media. I guess it’s living proof of that research?

Btw, great post as always, Leanne!