How To Leave Facebook And Twitter While Staying Social

How to leave Facebook and Twitter while staying social? It sounds like a paradox, right? We’re constantly bombarded with messages about how these platforms are essential for staying connected, but what if they’re actually holding us back? What if real-life relationships are waiting to be discovered beyond the digital walls of our feeds?

This guide will help you ditch the endless scroll and find meaningful connections in the real world.

We’ll explore the appeal and drawbacks of Facebook and Twitter, discuss alternative social platforms, and offer tips for reducing your social media time. We’ll also delve into the importance of face-to-face interactions, building genuine relationships, and leveraging technology for positive social engagement.

By the end of this journey, you’ll be equipped to navigate the digital age with intention and purpose, building a stronger social circle and prioritizing your well-being.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Social Landscape

Facebook and Twitter have become integral parts of our social lives, connecting us with friends, family, and even strangers across the globe. But as with any powerful tool, these platforms come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks.

Understanding these nuances is crucial to making informed decisions about how we engage with them.

The Appeal of Facebook and Twitter

These platforms offer a range of features that make them attractive for social connection:

Easy Connection:Facebook and Twitter make it incredibly easy to connect with people, regardless of geographical distance. A simple search can help you find friends, family, and even acquaintances you may have lost touch with.
Shared Experiences:These platforms allow us to share our experiences, thoughts, and feelings with others, fostering a sense of community and connection. We can share photos, videos, and updates, keeping our network informed about our lives.
Staying Informed:Facebook and Twitter are valuable sources of information, providing news updates, current events, and even local happenings. They act as a central hub for information, keeping us connected to the world around us.
Interest-Based Communities:Both platforms allow users to join groups and follow accounts based on their interests. This fosters a sense of belonging and provides access to information and discussions relevant to specific hobbies, passions, or causes.

Potential Drawbacks of Facebook and Twitter

While these platforms offer significant benefits, they also present certain drawbacks that can impact our well-being and social interactions:

Addiction and Time Consumption:The constant notifications, updates, and engaging content can lead to excessive time spent on these platforms, potentially affecting productivity and real-life interactions.
Privacy Concerns:Sharing personal information on social media platforms raises concerns about privacy and data security. There have been instances of data breaches and misuse of personal information, prompting users to be more cautious about what they share online.
Cyberbullying and Harassment:The anonymity offered by online platforms can sometimes lead to cyberbullying and harassment. It’s important to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect oneself from negative online interactions.
Echo Chambers and Filter Bubbles:The algorithms used by these platforms can create echo chambers and filter bubbles, exposing users primarily to information that confirms their existing beliefs. This can limit exposure to diverse perspectives and contribute to polarization.
Mental Health Impacts:Studies have shown that excessive social media use can negatively impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. It’s crucial to be mindful of our social media usage and prioritize real-life interactions and well-being.

Alternative Social Platforms

Recognizing the potential drawbacks of Facebook and Twitter, many users are seeking alternative social platforms that offer a more balanced and positive experience. Here are some popular alternatives:

Mastodon:This open-source platform emphasizes decentralized social networking, allowing users to join independent servers (called instances) focused on specific interests. It’s known for its commitment to privacy and freedom of speech.
Discord:Primarily used for gaming communities, Discord offers voice and text chat, making it ideal for real-time interaction and collaboration. It also allows for the creation of private servers, providing a safe and controlled environment for communication.
Reddit:This platform allows users to create and participate in communities (called subreddits) based on shared interests. It’s known for its diverse range of topics and its emphasis on user-generated content.
Instagram:While primarily focused on visual content, Instagram offers a more intimate and curated experience compared to Facebook and Twitter. It’s popular for sharing photos and videos, connecting with friends, and following influencers.
TikTok:This platform is known for its short-form videos, creative content, and viral trends. It’s a popular destination for entertainment, music, and cultural trends.

Detoxifying Your Social Media Feed

It’s time to take control of your social media experience and reclaim your precious time. This section will guide you through the process of detoxifying your social media feed, making it a more positive and engaging space.

Gradually Reducing Time Spent

Reducing your social media consumption doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Start by setting realistic goals and gradually decreasing your time spent on Facebook and Twitter.

So you’re ditching Facebook and Twitter, huh? That’s cool, but you’ll need to find new ways to connect with people. Maybe try hosting a potluck or volunteering at a local soup kitchen. And don’t forget about the basics, like washing your hands frequently! If you’re worried about germs, you can even learn how to make your own hand sanitizer.

But remember, real-life connections are the best way to stay social, even without the likes and retweets.

Set Time Limits:Use built-in features like “App Limits” on iOS or “Digital Wellbeing” on Android to set daily limits for Facebook and Twitter. This will help you stay mindful of your usage.
Schedule Social Media Time:Dedicate specific time slots for checking social media, perhaps in the morning or evening. This will help you avoid mindless scrolling throughout the day.
Unplug for a Day:Try taking a break from social media for a day or even a weekend. You might be surprised at how much time you reclaim and how much you miss it.

Unfollowing and Muting Accounts

Unfollowing or muting accounts that contribute to a negative or overwhelming social media experience is a powerful step towards a more positive feed.

Identify Toxic Accounts:Pay attention to accounts that consistently trigger negative emotions, spread misinformation, or promote negativity. These are the first candidates for unfollowing or muting.
Unfollow or Mute:Facebook and Twitter offer easy options to unfollow or mute accounts. Simply go to the account’s profile and click the “Unfollow” or “Mute” button. You can always choose to follow them again later if you wish.
Review Your Feed:Periodically review your feed and unfollow or mute accounts that no longer serve you. This is an ongoing process as your interests and values may change over time.

Curating a Positive and Engaging Social Media Experience

After detoxifying your feed, you can focus on creating a social media experience that aligns with your values and goals.

Follow Accounts That Inspire You:Seek out accounts that share inspiring content, promote positive messages, or offer valuable information. This could include accounts focused on personal growth, creativity, or social causes you care about.
Engage with Positive Content:Actively interact with posts that resonate with you. Like, comment, and share content that inspires you or makes you feel good. This will help you create a more positive social media environment.
Limit News Consumption:Social media can be a constant stream of negative news. Consider limiting your news consumption on these platforms and seeking out reliable news sources elsewhere. This will help you avoid information overload and maintain a more positive outlook.

Exploring Alternative Social Networks

You’ve decided to take a break from Facebook and Twitter, but you still want to stay connected with friends and family, and engage in meaningful conversations. The good news is that there are plenty of alternative social networks out there, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Comparing Alternative Social Networks

To help you navigate this landscape, we’ve compiled a table comparing some of the most popular platforms:

Platform Name	Focus	Features	Community
Mastodon	Decentralized microblogging	Similar to Twitter, but with more control over your data and experience.	Strong emphasis on open-source software and community-driven development.
Discord	Communication and community building	Offers voice and text chat, screen sharing, and customizable servers.	Popular among gamers, but also used by various communities, including artists, musicians, and educators.
Reddit	Content aggregation and discussion forums	Users submit content and vote on it, creating a hierarchy of popular topics.	Highly diverse, with subreddits dedicated to almost any interest imaginable.
LinkedIn	Professional networking	Focuses on connecting professionals and building career connections.	Strong emphasis on career development, job searching, and industry news.
Instagram	Photo and video sharing	Allows users to share visual content and connect with others through likes, comments, and direct messages.	Highly visual and popular among younger generations, with a focus on aesthetics and personal branding.

Redefining Social Connection

So, you’ve taken the plunge and stepped away from the constant notifications and curated feeds of Facebook and Twitter. But how do you stay connected with friends and family, and even forge new relationships, without relying on those platforms? The answer lies in redefining social connection, focusing on real-life interactions and meaningful experiences.

Cultivating Meaningful Connections Outside of Social Media

Social media often creates a false sense of connection, with fleeting interactions and superficial exchanges. To cultivate meaningful connections, you need to prioritize genuine, face-to-face interactions.

Reconnect with old friends.Reach out to people you haven’t seen in a while, even if it’s just a quick phone call or text. Plan a coffee date, a hike, or a game night to catch up and rekindle those connections.
Join a club or group.Find a group that aligns with your interests, whether it’s a book club, a hiking group, a sports team, or a volunteer organization. This is a great way to meet new people who share your passions and build genuine relationships.
Attend local events.Check out your local community calendar for events like concerts, festivals, farmers markets, or workshops. These events provide opportunities to meet new people in a relaxed and social setting.
Be a good listener.One of the most important aspects of building meaningful connections is actively listening to others. Show genuine interest in their lives and experiences, and ask thoughtful questions.
Offer your time and support.Helping others is a great way to build strong bonds. Offer to help a friend move, volunteer at a local charity, or simply be there for someone who needs a listening ear.

Engaging in Real-Life Social Activities and Hobbies

Engaging in real-life activities is a fantastic way to meet new people, expand your social circle, and build lasting connections.

So you’re trying to ditch Facebook and Twitter, but you still want to stay connected? Maybe try focusing on real-life interactions, like joining a local sports league or volunteering. And if you’re into fitness, you can even track your progress with your Apple Watch, which can be super motivating! If you’re not sure how to use the “Other” workout feature, Master the mysteries of ‘Other’ workouts on Apple Watch to get the most out of your workouts.

The point is, there are plenty of ways to stay social and active without relying on social media.

Take up a new hobby.Learning a new skill or pursuing a passion is a great way to meet like-minded individuals. Consider taking a cooking class, joining a dance group, or learning to play an instrument.
Volunteer your time.Volunteering is a rewarding experience that allows you to give back to your community while connecting with others who share your values.
Explore your city or town.Discover hidden gems in your local area by visiting museums, art galleries, parks, or historical landmarks. You never know who you might meet along the way.
Attend sporting events.Cheer on your favorite team with friends or family. The shared experience of rooting for a team can create a strong sense of camaraderie.
Go to concerts or live music events.Music is a universal language that can bring people together. Attend a concert or live music event to enjoy the music and connect with others who share your taste.

Benefits of Face-to-Face Interactions and Building Genuine Relationships

Face-to-face interactions offer numerous benefits that social media can’t replicate.

Improved communication and understanding.Nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice, play a crucial role in communication. Face-to-face interactions allow for a more nuanced and complete understanding of each other’s messages.
Stronger bonds and deeper connections.Genuine relationships are built on shared experiences, mutual support, and open communication. Face-to-face interactions foster these elements, leading to stronger bonds and deeper connections.
Increased happiness and well-being.Studies have shown that strong social connections are essential for happiness and well-being. Spending time with loved ones, building new relationships, and engaging in meaningful interactions can significantly improve your overall quality of life.

Maintaining Digital Wellness: How To Leave Facebook And Twitter While Staying Social

Leaving Facebook and Twitter doesn’t mean you have to give up on social connection entirely. It’s also a chance to prioritize your mental health and well-being by taking control of your digital life. This section explores practical strategies to manage digital fatigue and social media burnout.

Managing Digital Fatigue and Avoiding Burnout

Digital fatigue is a real thing, and it can manifest as exhaustion, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms like headaches. It’s important to recognize the signs and take steps to manage your digital intake.

Take Regular Breaks:Just like you would take a break from work, step away from your devices for at least 15 minutes every hour. Get up, stretch, walk around, or engage in a non-screen activity.
Schedule Device-Free Time:Designate specific times of the day, like mealtimes or before bed, as device-free zones. This helps create boundaries and allows you to fully engage in other activities.
Limit Social Media Use:Instead of scrolling endlessly, set a daily time limit for social media use. Apps like Freedom or AppBlock can help enforce these limits.
Unplug on Weekends:Take a break from social media and technology entirely on weekends. Use this time to reconnect with nature, pursue hobbies, or spend quality time with loved ones.

Setting Healthy Boundaries and Establishing Time Limits

Creating boundaries around your online activity is crucial for maintaining digital wellness. This involves setting clear expectations for yourself and others about your online behavior and availability.

Define Your Online Presence:Decide how you want to present yourself online and what you’re comfortable sharing. Set boundaries around what you discuss and who you interact with.
Turn Off Notifications:Constant notifications can be distracting and contribute to stress. Turn off non-essential notifications and only allow important alerts.
Limit Social Media Scrolling:Instead of mindlessly scrolling through feeds, set a specific time for checking social media, and stick to it. Use a timer or an app to help you stay on track.
Use Social Media for Specific Purposes:Avoid using social media for mindless entertainment or procrastination. Instead, use it for specific purposes, like connecting with friends and family, sharing information, or learning new skills.

Mindful Social Media Use and Prioritizing Real-Life Connections

Mindful social media use involves being aware of how social media impacts your mood, thoughts, and behavior. It’s about making conscious choices about how you engage with social media and prioritizing real-life connections.

Be Aware of Your Triggers:Pay attention to how certain types of content or interactions make you feel. If something triggers negative emotions, unfollow or mute those accounts.
Practice Gratitude:Focus on the positive aspects of your life and express gratitude for the good things in your life. This can help shift your perspective and reduce negative feelings.
Prioritize Real-Life Connections:Remember that real-life connections are more fulfilling than online interactions. Make time for face-to-face conversations, shared experiences, and meaningful relationships.
Engage in Meaningful Activities:Instead of scrolling through social media, spend your time on activities that bring you joy, purpose, and fulfillment.

Leveraging Technology for Positive Social Interactions

It’s not about abandoning technology altogether; it’s about using it strategically to enhance your social life and foster meaningful connections. By embracing the power of communication tools and online communities, you can stay connected with loved ones, explore shared interests, and build a fulfilling social life beyond the confines of traditional social media platforms.

Messaging Apps and Video Conferencing Tools

Messaging apps and video conferencing tools have revolutionized the way we communicate, offering convenient and accessible ways to stay in touch with friends and family, regardless of distance.

Instant messaging appslike WhatsApp, Messenger, and Telegram allow for real-time text conversations, voice and video calls, and group chats, making it easy to stay connected with loved ones.
Video conferencing toolssuch as Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype enable face-to-face interactions, fostering a sense of presence and intimacy that text-based communication can’t replicate.

These tools can facilitate virtual gatherings, birthday celebrations, and even support groups, creating opportunities for meaningful social interaction without relying on traditional social media platforms.

Online Communities and Forums

Online communities and forums offer a platform for connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar interests, passions, or experiences.

Joining online communitiesdedicated to your hobbies, passions, or causes can provide a sense of belonging and support, fostering friendships and shared experiences.
Participating in online forumsallows you to engage in discussions, share knowledge, and learn from others who share your interests.

These online spaces can be a source of valuable information, encouragement, and social interaction, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Benefits of Using Technology for Positive Social Engagement

Leveraging technology for positive social engagement offers numerous benefits, promoting well-being and fostering meaningful connections:

Enhanced communication: Messaging apps and video conferencing tools provide instant and accessible ways to stay connected with loved ones, regardless of distance.
Community building: Online communities and forums allow individuals to connect with like-minded people, fostering a sense of belonging and shared interests.
Access to support networks: Online communities can provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals facing similar challenges or seeking advice and encouragement.
Expanded social circles: Online communities and forums can connect individuals with people from diverse backgrounds and interests, expanding their social horizons.

By embracing these tools, you can create a fulfilling and supportive social life that aligns with your values and promotes well-being.

Finding Balance and Purpose

Leaving behind the constant scroll of social media can be a liberating experience, but it’s important to remember that the digital world still holds a lot of potential for connection and engagement. The key is to find a balance that works for you, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of online interaction without sacrificing your mental well-being and personal goals.

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health. While it can foster a sense of community and connection, it can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. The constant exposure to curated and often unrealistic portrayals of others’ lives can lead to social comparison and feelings of inadequacy.

Additionally, the relentless notifications and the fear of missing out (FOMO) can create a sense of urgency and pressure, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

Aligning Social Media Use with Personal Values and Goals, How to leave Facebook and Twitter while staying social

The key to navigating the potential downsides of social media is to align your online activities with your personal values and goals. Consider what you want to achieve through social media and how it fits into your overall life. Do you want to connect with friends and family, share your creative work, or stay informed about current events?

By clarifying your intentions, you can make more conscious choices about how you use social media and avoid getting caught up in the endless scroll.

Strategies for Finding a Healthy Balance

Finding a healthy balance between online and offline social interactions requires conscious effort and a willingness to experiment. Here are some strategies you can try:

Set Boundaries and Limits

Schedule Time for Social Media: Instead of browsing aimlessly, allocate specific time slots for social media, similar to how you would schedule any other activity. This helps prevent mindless scrolling and allows you to be more intentional with your time.
Turn Off Notifications: The constant barrage of notifications can be distracting and contribute to feelings of stress. Turning off notifications, especially during certain times of the day, can help you focus on other tasks and reduce the urge to check your phone.
Use Social Media for Specific Purposes: Instead of browsing aimlessly, use social media for specific tasks, such as connecting with friends and family, researching a topic, or joining a group with shared interests. This can help you stay focused and avoid getting lost in the endless scroll.

Prioritize Offline Interactions

Schedule In-Person Time: Make an effort to spend time with friends and family in person. This can help you feel more connected and grounded and reduce your reliance on social media for social interaction.
Engage in Offline Activities: Pursuing hobbies and interests outside of the digital world can help you find a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Consider activities like reading, exercising, cooking, or spending time in nature.
Connect with Your Community: Get involved in your local community by volunteering, joining a club, or attending events. This can help you meet new people and build meaningful connections offline.

Practice Mindful Social Media Use

Be Aware of Your Emotions: Pay attention to how you feel before, during, and after using social media. If you find yourself feeling anxious, envious, or depressed, it may be a sign that you’re spending too much time online.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: When you find yourself comparing yourself to others or feeling inadequate, challenge those thoughts. Remind yourself that social media often presents a curated and unrealistic view of people’s lives.
Focus on Positive Interactions: Seek out positive and uplifting content online. Follow accounts that inspire you, share messages of kindness, and engage in conversations that make you feel good.

Building a Strong Social Circle

Stepping away from the digital realm doesn’t mean isolating yourself. It’s about cultivating meaningful connections in the real world. This section explores strategies for building a strong social circle, focusing on genuine connections, community-building, and nurturing existing relationships.

So you’re ditching Facebook and Twitter, huh? Good for you! But you still want to stay connected, right? Maybe you could try hosting a virtual hangout with friends using Zoom or Google Meet. Or, if you’re feeling more chill, set up a multi-room listening experience with your HomePods using AirFoil – Stream audio from iOS to multiple HomePods with AirFoil.

You can even use it to play music from Spotify or Apple Music, making your home feel like a party even when you’re solo. Whatever you choose, remember to keep those social connections strong!

Networking and Building Genuine Connections

Building a strong social circle starts with networking. Here are some tips to connect with like-minded individuals:

Join Clubs and Groups:Engaging in shared interests through clubs or groups provides a natural platform to meet people who share similar passions.
Volunteer:Volunteering offers a chance to connect with others while contributing to a cause you care about. It fosters a sense of purpose and shared values.
Attend Local Events:Local events, like farmers markets, art festivals, or community gatherings, provide opportunities to connect with people in your area.
Engage in Conversations:Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with people you meet. Ask open-ended questions, listen attentively, and be genuinely interested in others.

Organizing Social Events and Fostering Community

Creating opportunities for social interaction is crucial for building a strong social circle. Here are some ideas for organizing events that foster a sense of community:

Potlucks and Game Nights:These informal gatherings provide a relaxed environment for people to connect and enjoy each other’s company.
Book Clubs and Movie Nights:Shared interests like books or movies can serve as a starting point for discussions and connections.
Community Service Projects:Working together on a shared project can create a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

Nurturing Existing Relationships and Fostering New Connections

Building a strong social circle involves both nurturing existing relationships and fostering new connections.

Reach Out Regularly:Make an effort to stay in touch with friends and family, even if it’s just a quick phone call or text.
Plan Activities Together:Schedule time for quality time with loved ones. This could involve anything from going for a walk to attending a concert or simply catching up over coffee.
Be Open to New Experiences:Step outside your comfort zone and try new things. This can lead to unexpected connections and expand your social circle.

Embracing Offline Experiences

Stepping away from the digital realm opens up a world of possibilities for enriching social interactions. By embracing offline experiences, you can cultivate genuine connections and create lasting memories. This shift allows you to experience the world through authentic human connection and shared experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

The Power of Real-Life Interactions

Real-life interactions offer a unique and valuable experience that cannot be replicated online. Engaging in face-to-face conversations, sharing meals with loved ones, and participating in group activities allow for a deeper level of connection and understanding. These experiences foster empathy, build trust, and strengthen relationships.

Nonverbal Communication:Body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice play a crucial role in conveying emotions and understanding. These nuances are often lost in online interactions, making real-life interactions richer and more meaningful.
Shared Experiences:Participating in activities together, such as attending concerts, hiking, or volunteering, creates shared memories and strengthens bonds. These experiences provide opportunities for laughter, support, and a sense of shared purpose.
Building Trust and Intimacy:Real-life interactions allow for the development of trust and intimacy over time. Through consistent engagement, individuals can learn about each other’s values, beliefs, and personalities, fostering deeper connections.

Navigating the Digital Age

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, reshaping how we communicate and connect with one another. As social media platforms continue to adapt and innovate, it’s essential to understand the evolving nature of these platforms and their impact on our social interactions.

This section will explore the potential future of social connection in a technology-driven world and provide insights on how to navigate the digital landscape with intention and purpose.

The Future of Social Connection

The future of social connection is likely to be characterized by a blend of online and offline experiences, with technology playing a more integrated role in our lives. Social media platforms will likely become more personalized and immersive, utilizing augmented and virtual reality to create more engaging and interactive experiences.

This could lead to a blurring of the lines between the digital and physical worlds, with virtual spaces becoming more integrated into our daily lives.

Navigating the Digital Landscape with Intention

Navigating the digital landscape requires a conscious effort to be mindful of how we interact with technology. Here are some key strategies to help you navigate this evolving world:

Cultivate Digital Literacy:Understanding how social media algorithms work and the potential biases embedded in online platforms is crucial. By developing digital literacy, you can make informed decisions about the information you consume and the content you share.
Prioritize Authenticity:In a world of curated online personas, authenticity is more valuable than ever. Focus on sharing genuine experiences and connecting with others on a deeper level. This fosters meaningful relationships and builds trust.
Embrace Digital Detoxification:Regular breaks from social media can help you regain perspective and reconnect with the physical world. Setting boundaries and creating dedicated time for offline activities can enhance your well-being and prevent digital burnout.

A Personalized Approach

The journey to a healthier relationship with social media is unique to each individual. Just like finding the perfect pair of shoes, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The key is to embrace experimentation and find what works best for you.

Understanding Your Social Media Habits

Before making any drastic changes, take a moment to reflect on your current social media usage. Consider these questions:

What platforms do you use most frequently?
What are your primary motivations for using social media?
What are the positive and negative aspects of your social media experience?
What are your goals for reducing your social media usage?

Once you have a better understanding of your social media habits, you can begin to tailor your approach.

Experimenting with Different Approaches

There are many different ways to approach social media reduction. Some people prefer to take a gradual approach, while others opt for a more drastic “cold turkey” method. Experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you.

Time Limits:Set daily or weekly time limits for social media use. Use built-in features like app timers or third-party apps to track and manage your usage.
Social Media Detox:Take a break from social media for a specific period of time, such as a weekend or a week. This can help you gain perspective on your relationship with social media and break unhealthy habits.
Selective Platform Use:Choose to use only specific platforms that align with your interests and values. Consider removing apps that you find most distracting or time-consuming.
Digital Sabbath:Designate certain days or times of the week as “digital sabbaths” where you abstain from social media altogether. This can help you reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the real world.

Remember, the goal is to create a personalized social media experience that supports your well-being and allows you to thrive in the digital age.

Conclusion

Leaving Facebook and Twitter doesn’t mean abandoning social connection; it’s about redefining it. By embracing offline experiences, cultivating meaningful relationships, and leveraging technology wisely, you can build a vibrant social life that nourishes your soul. It’s a journey that requires intention, but the rewards are worth it.

So, take a deep breath, step away from the screen, and rediscover the joy of connecting with others in the real world. You might be surprised by what you find.