To Ghost Is To Love Yourself

Oftentimes, I ponder over new ways to improve my mental health. I enjoy finding new hobbies or following different trends as a way to beef up my mental health. But if that doesn’t work, it’s not the end of the world. One of my favourite techniques to improve my mental health is the idea of being a ghost.

Effectively, being a ghost means disappearing at random times to be alone. This is something that I do on purpose, so there really isn’t a need to give others a prior warning. It’s nice to do if I’ve been working with someone quite closely as of recent times but usually, I tend to leave.

If you’re someone who is familiar with social media, Instagram in particular, you may get nervous about this technique. I totally understand this. Instagram is a weird social media platform in that it is supposed to be social, but you end up seeking validation from others. There is nothing wrong with seeking validation because we all do it. But I wouldn’t advise you to keep this up.

Pick a month

One of my favourite ways to go ghost on people, is to pick a month. I usually choose the summer months because it’s warmer outside in the UK. I’m also interested in experiences and travelling, so I’d prefer to be out doing things compared to taking pictures. Don’t get me wrong pictures are great, but a photo of a museum or a selfie in my bedroom isn’t a fair competition. The museum is going to win every single time.

That way, when you resume your social media activities you’ll have something great to post.

Delete the app

If you find it hard to leave Twitter alone, delete the app. A phone is easier than a computer when trying to see what everyone is talking about. Especially when hit tv shows like Euphoria air and there is so much to speak about. You want to go on Twitter to see what everyone else is saying, and share your opinion. Deleting the app when something topical is current is the hardest part. But don’t forget the reason for the deletin the app in the first place. You want a chance to relax and disassociate yourself from the smoke in mirrors that is virtual reality.

Get a hobby

A hobby is one of the easiest ways to become a ghost when you need some well deserved R&R. Hobbies are things that you do in person, so it doesn’t feel like you are punishing yourself by not being able to use social media. Great hobbies for ghosting include:

• The gym
• The cinema
• Theme park
• Get your hair or nails done
• Get a beauty treatment

The above list is not exhaustive, but it’s a great way to switch off from the world.

Back to my original point, becoming a ghost is a good and necessary thing. You don’t need permission from anyone to take some time away from your comfort zone. It’s important to keep on top of your mental health and to remember that you are responsible for your own happiness. Stay positive and unapologetically put your happiness first.