Finding Mental Space: Laurie Ruettimann on Escaping Social Media’s Grip

In a recent LinkedIn post, Laurie Ruettimann shares a candid account of her struggle with social media consumption and her surprising solution: the vintage mobile game, Candy Crush. Ruettimann details her decision to delete Instagram, citing exhaustion from “doom-scrolling through bad political takes and watching people unravel in real time.” Her niece and her friend’s suggestion to play Candy Crush, which they deemed “vintage,” prompted Ruettimann to reconsider her digital habits.

Ruettimann explains her strategic approach to managing her social media use:

“Since then, I’ve deleted Instagram from my phone. Every time I want to use it, I reinstall it. When I’m done, I delete it again. It’s absurd, but it works. My consumption is down, and my headspace is healthier.”

Reclaiming Headspace in a Digital Age

The author connects her digital detox to the heightened emotions surrounding recent events, such as Election Day. Ruettimann uses this context to pivot to broader societal observations, touching upon political endorsements and the complexities of mayoral leadership in New York City. She reflects on the challenges of making all citizens feel safe, particularly in light of recent political discourse.

Personal Safety vs. Political Ideals

Ruettimann delves into the personal nature of safety and equality, asserting that these fundamental needs often become overshadowed by political agendas. She expresses skepticism about any mayor’s ability to fully ensure safety for all, especially for women and queer individuals who are frequently harmed by those close to them.

As Ruettimann puts it:

“Women and queer people are most often harmed by the people they love. We’re shot, assaulted, dismissed. Told our concerns aren’t as important as the price of eggs or rent. Call me crazy, but safety and equality aren’t political. They’re personal. And sometimes, they’re impossible.”

She anticipates that political figures, regardless of their intentions, may ultimately fall short of these deeply personal expectations, a sentiment she extends to the current mayoral candidate in New York.

Candy Crush as a Healthy Escape

Returning to her initial anecdote, Ruettimann highlights Candy Crush not just as a distraction, but as a healthy alternative to the often toxic environment of social media. She describes the game as “fun, dorky, and a healthy way to disappear for a bit.” While acknowledging her own spending and progress in the game, she frames it as a fitting coping mechanism for the current era.

Ruettimann concludes her post with a provocative thought:

“If you hate my political take, cool. I probably hate yours. Now close the app, play a game, and go get your own sugar crush.”

Through her personal narrative and insightful commentary, Laurie Ruettimann offers a relatable perspective on navigating the digital landscape and finding moments of respite in an increasingly overwhelming online world.