Goodbye Facebook: Logging Out & Deleting the App

Stepping Away & Reclaiming Connections IRL: Darvin’s Experience

For years, Facebook was a digital home — a place to stay connected, share memories, and engage with the world.

But over time, it has transformed into something else entirely.

The curated chaos of its algorithm, the misinformation that spreads like wildfire, and the deepening social and political divides have made it a space I no longer want to be part of.

The content and news articles that Facebook pushes feel less like personal stories and journalism and more like clickbait designed to divide.

Not to mention how many pages have began using AI to produce images aimed at producing HIGH engagement — Cue sad cat images, weird “I did this!” child stories, or an AI-generated person celebrating a 121st birthday.

I have also noticed that discussions in the comments section quickly devolve into heated arguments, often fueled by users who are misinformed yet certain of their stance.

Instead of fostering meaningful conversations, Facebook seems to thrive on discord, making it difficult to find genuine community and open discussion.

Despite my frustrations with Facebook, the decision to leave wasn’t easy.

My profile holds years of memories — photos of vacations, milestones, and everyday moments that I’ve documented over time.

There’s also the social aspect.

The app has been my link to friends, distant family, and local community members. Features like Marketplace and event listings have been undeniably useful — helping me find great deals and discover things to do in my area.

And then there’s the nostalgia

Remembering the early days of Facebook with Farmville invites, the simple fun of “poking” friends, and lively discussions in community threads.

But stepping away from Facebook has opened up space for things I truly enjoy.

Instead of doom scrolling, I spend more time cooking, *trying* new recipes, and appreciating the process of making meals from scratch.

My cat (Kitty Purry) also benefits from my attention, and there’s something deeply rewarding about unwinding with her curled up next to me instead of getting lost in an endless news feed.

I’ve also reclaimed time for physical activity — hitting the gym more regularly, going on hikes, and simply being more present in my surroundings.

These activities bring a sense of fulfillment that no amount of social media engagement can match.

Of course, there were practical gaps to fill. To replace Facebook’s useful features, I found alternatives to Marketplace. I switched to local buy-and-sell apps like OfferUp.

One of the biggest concerns in leaving Facebook was the fear of missing out.

But I quickly learned that real experiences outweigh digital updates.

Instead of passively watching others live their lives, I focus on my own adventures — bowling nights, concerts, and trying new restaurants.

These moments are far more satisfying than scrolling through someone else’s highlight reel.

I also make a conscious effort to avoid the toxic news cycles. Instead of being bombarded with algorithm-driven headlines, I now get my news from curated sources like Google News, BlueSky, and RedNote. This shift has allowed me to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed or manipulated.

Letting go of Facebook wasn’t just about quitting an app — it was about reclaiming my time, my mental space, and my sense of connection with the real world.

While it’s still a work in progress, I’ve found that life feels richer, calmer, and more intentional without the noise of Facebook in the background.