In addition to email, over the years I’ve also used Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest and LinkedIn (among others) as simple ways to stay in touch with you. These platforms have helped me share daily steps, offer new ideas for personal growth and create an easy path for connection.

Every so often life presents a moment when quiet action speaks more clearly than argument. I am in that moment now.

Australia is introducing new ID requirements and new online restrictions for under sixteen year olds which opens the door to broader limitations on open communication.

Governments around the world are moving in the same direction which raises deeper questions about free speech and autonomy.

Social platforms once felt like open town squares. Over time many have chosen to align themselves with increasing controls rather than protect the freedom to express ideas without fear or filtering.

I have no further interest in fighting governments or fighting platforms (I have tried, along with many other people). I prefer to step away and let my choices speak for me. Removing myself from Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest and LinkedIn is part of that personal protest.

Between today and 10 December 2025, I will be focused on the practical work of no longer posting to those accounts (plus closing a few, if not all). It is a thoughtful process and I am taking it step by step.

Forward Steps will continue exactly as it always has through email so nothing changes for you in how you receive content or gifts.

I am also gradually moving my email account and calendars to Proton for stronger privacy, as well as using a VPN.

If you need to reach me, you can reply to any Forward Steps email which remains the most reliable way to stay connected.

You are also welcome to contact me on Nostr which aligns far more closely with the values of open communication. Nostr will be my main social presence.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. Forward Steps has always been about choosing clarity, choosing calm action and choosing what strengthens the next stage of life. This step is one of those choices.

This is not a dramatic stand. It is simply a clear decision to live in alignment with my values.

You will be the first to know if anything further unfolds.

PLUS check out these free gifts from friends… CHECK out the following great resources as well…Forward Steps Personal Development » 36 Forward Steps Facebook Moments In 2022

Hi, I'm Thea Westra at Forward Steps (forwardstepsblog.com)

Since March 2003, I've been sharing practical, positive, thought provoking and inspiring self improvement content online. My aim is simple - to offer tips and resources that help us enhance our daily experience of life and to keep stepping forward. Perth, Western Australia is the place I call home and I'm the author of "Time For My Life: 365 Stepping Stones". You might also know me from the Forward Steps personal development blog and the daily series of "365 Forward Steps Notes", all designed to add wings to our unique life journeys.

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