Why I’m Taking a Step Back from Social Media
Over the years, alongside email, I’ve used Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest and LinkedIn as simple ways to stay connected with you.
These platforms have helped me share daily steps, offer new ideas for personal growth and create an easy path for connection.
Every now and then life invites us to pause, reflect and make a choice that feels fully aligned with who we are. I’m in one of those reflective moments now.
The Bigger Questions About Autonomy and Free Speech
Australia is introducing new ID requirements and new online restrictions for under-sixteen year olds which naturally opens the possibility of broader limitations on open communication.
Similar movements are happening worldwide which raises bigger questions about autonomy, privacy and the freedom to share ideas openly.
At the same time, there’s a growing push for people to hand over biometric details, personal ID and sensitive information through external systems.
Many people may feel comfortable with that. For me, it crosses a line I’m no longer willing to ignore.
Taking Action Where It Matters
I have taken part in the conversations that mattered, including writing to local MPs, preparing Senate submissions and signing numerous parliamentary petitions.
My next right step isn’t more arguing. It’s choosing simplicity, privacy and a sense of peace around how I show up digitally. It’s setting a calm, clear boundary and stepping into a more intentional online life.
Setting Boundaries in a Changing Digital World
Social platforms once felt like open town squares. Over time, many have chosen increasing controls rather than protecting the freedom to share ideas openly.
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.
Clarity grows when we simplify our digital world and honor our own boundaries. Share on XRather than debate the details, what stood out was a quiet inner nudge to look carefully at how I want to communicate, share and participate online.
My Personal Protest and Intentional Digital Life
Removing myself from Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest and LinkedIn is part of my personal protest and it’s a way for me to stay aligned with what feels true and healthy.
Between today and 10 December 2025, I’ll be focused on no longer posting to those accounts and closing a few.
I’m taking it slowly and thoughtfully, just one small step at a time.
What This Means for Forward Steps Subscribers
Forward Steps will continue exactly as it always has through email. Nothing changes for you in how you receive content, insights or gifts.
Choosing calm action over endless debate is often the strongest protest we can make. Share on XI’m also gradually moving my email account and calendars to Proton for stronger privacy and using a VPN, taking steps to simplify and protect my digital life.
If you need to reach me, simply reply to any Forward Steps email. My domains remain active so you’ll always have a direct line to me.
Staying Connected in New Ways
You’re also welcome to connect with me on Nostr which aligns more closely with the values of open communication I want to carry forward. I’ll keep my YouTube channel as well, since many years of work live there.
For anyone interested, here is a recent YouTube update about some of the changes underway.
Looking Ahead with Calm, Clear Choices
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.
Aligning your actions with your values is the quietest form of strength. Share on XIt’s not a dramatic stand. It’s a conscious, steady decision to live in alignment with my values and simplify my digital world.
You will be the first to know if anything further unfolds.
I’ve picked out 4 videos that give you a sense
Parents can no longer parent:
Information about how much further this expands:
Hopefully a challenge in the courts can repeal the legislation:
Government minister responsible for overseeing this legislation:
Government’s decision was based on one piece of “research” that is not peer reviewed, here’s their methodology.
PLUS check out these free gifts from friends… CHECK out the following great resources as well…Forward Steps Personal Development »
Hi, I'm Thea Westra at Forward Steps (forwardstepsblog.com)
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