Between timing posts for optimum likes and hosting apps to track un-followers, Instagram users have created a culture of their own. What started as a simple hobby for the everyday photographer has become something of a burden for much of today’s youth.

I first downloaded Instagram in early high school, and quickly learned the idea of quantity over quality of followers. Welcoming spam accounts and strangers, I honestly didn’t care who was peeking into my personal life. All I knew was that there were some unspoken milestones to reach, and for some reason, they seemed essential to my happiness.

Suddenly, with the blow up of “Instagram models”, the real pressure began. Everyone wanted to look their best in photos, but only the dedicated users took the time to fleek their brows and perfect their filters. This begged the question: How do you compare?

Years of compulsively checking in for likes and tags has become pretty exhausting, and it has taken me until just now to realize it. Regardless of where you are in life, judging yourself on a daily basis is completely unhealthy. Not only does an obsessive attitude towards Instagram promote rating others’ looks and values, but it can be detrimental to their mental wellbeing as well as yours.

If you were crushing on a classmate from your Bio Lecture, then saw he/she only had 12 followers on Instagram compared to your 2,000, you might be weary. Some readers may laugh at this, but for many it’s a reality. Social status online can affect not only how others perceive you, but also how you view yourself.

This month, I decided to take a break from Instagram to cut out the constant self-analysis that has become a normal part of my life. While keeping my account technically active to avoid questions from friends or family, I deleted the app and cut myself off from all notifications. I can honestly say that I breathed a sigh of relief the second I got rid of the social network and have felt the same way ever since.

Don’t get me wrong- Social media is great. Only now, I turn my attention towards sites like Pinterest to pass time, where I am far more uplifted and inspired by recipes, tutorials, etc. Whereas before I might have checked into Instagram to see how I could persuade others to like me, now I check into alternative social media platforms to see how I can improve myself by my own standards. Without the stress to impress, life is simpler, easier, and a lot more comfortable. I highly suggest to those who might catch yourselves reaching for the approval of any form of social media, you take a quick break and see just how quickly your perspectives can change. If you’re like me, you might discover that your quality of life is much more important than your quantity of followers.