Marcus Aurelius Has Told Me to Delete Social Media
It’s not every day that a Roman emperor offers you life advice, but after finally getting around to reading Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, I feel I've had a wake-up call. Every January, I tell myself, This is the year I’m going to read the Stoics and journal my thoughts, and every year, I fall short due to one distraction or another. His reflections on focus and the dangers of distraction have helped cement a growing feeling I’ve had: social media is taking up too much space in my life. One particular passage hit home:
“If you seek tranquillity, do less. Or (more accurately) do what’s essential—what the logos of a social being requires, and in the requisite way. Which brings a double satisfaction: to do less, better.” (Meditations 4.24)
Social media, for all its connection and inspiration, often feels like the opposite of tranquillity. It’s endless noise, endless scrolling, endless doing. This year, I want to do less, but better... So I'm taking break from social media to focus on what matters most: my work and being a dad to Alex.
A Lesson in Silence
This decision was also influenced by another recent read: Abroad in Japan by Chris Broad. Among the insights into Japanese culture, I learned about the concept of chinmoku—the art of silence. In Japanese culture, silence is not awkward; it’s meaningful. It creates space for reflection, understanding, and presence.
Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a silent person—I’ll fill any awkward silence with a song, a random fact, or a question. It’s simply part of who I am, and I’m not trying to completely change that. For me, silence often feels like something to be avoided or filled. Social media feeds on that impulse, constantly drawing us into conversation, reaction, or comparison.
The Japanese concept of chinmoku offers an alternative—a perspective where silence is not emptiness but fullness. Inspired by this idea, I’ve decided to embrace more quiet in the new year, stepping back from the noise and learning to feel more comfortable in stillness.
The Fleeting Nature of Life
Marcus Aurelius reminds us repeatedly that time is precious:
“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” (Meditations 2.11)
As a parent, this hits especially hard. Alex is growing up fast, and I don’t want to look back and realise I missed precious moments because I was glued to my phone. Time is fleeting, and I want to spend it being present—watching my son grow, creating meaningful work, and finding joy in the little, unfiltered moments of life.
Retreating Into Myself
Both Marcus Aurelius and chinmoku emphasise the value of turning inward.
“People look for retreats for themselves, in the country, by the coast, or in the hills... But this is a mark of the most common sort of man, for it is in your power whenever you shall choose to retire into yourself.” (Meditations 4.3)
Social media often pulls us away from this. It’s an external world that demands constant engagement, leaving little room for self-reflection. By stepping back, I’m hoping to retreat inward, finding clarity, creativity, and focus.
What This Means
Taking a break from social media doesn’t mean I’m giving it up forever. I recognise its value as a tool for connection and learning—though the major platforms feel far removed from that purpose right now. For now, I want to create space for reflection, presence, and meaningful action.
I’m aiming for a year that’s quieter, more intentional, and richer in quality. I’ll be sharing my thoughts on all things here in this distraction-free setting and I'll be posting my photos over here.
As the emperor-philosopher wrote:
“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.” (Meditations 10.16)
For me, that starts by closing the apps, embracing the silence, and being truly present for my work, my family, and myself. If anybody needs me, I'll still be on WhatsApp & Messenger.