Two years ago I finally cleansed myself of most mainstream news including social media like twitter or facebook, but not things like HN or reddit (specific nich

Two years ago I finally cleansed myself of most mainstream news including social media like twitter or facebook, but not things like HN or reddit (specific niche/hobby subreddits, not the main ones). It's been a huge life improvement. I've been able to let people back into my life that I had mentally cast aside because they had a political opinion I didn't agree with. I talk to my neighbor now whose been wanting to talk to me for years (kinda trumpy, but genuinely good human being who lends me lawncare equipment). I no longer try to fit every person I see into some kind of stereotyped character. People will surprise you when you actually talk to them. My emotions feel less manipulated by arbitrary news cycle headlines that I can't control. I feel more down to earth. The internet feels smaller and in some ways I feel less connected to people I once did, but I'm realizing now just how superficial those connections always were -- it's far better to be a part of your local community. Don't get me wrong - I still vote, but my free time is spent on my hobbies and family now. This feels like a healthier way to live.