Recently, I saw a TikTok that introduced the concept of our society prioritizing consuming over creating. I found that wording to be such an interesting way to describe the issue phones have brought to our generation. I recently wrote an article (shameless plug) about how creativity is dying, and one of the points I made is that we spend so much time on our phones—most of which is spent mindlessly scrolling on social media. But what if there was a social media app that let you learn and think creatively while also being able to post in a creative format? Well, I have discovered the perfect app! Substack is my new favorite social media, and in this article, I’m going to tell you why!
So, first, what is Substack? Substack is a platform that allows short articles about any topic! I like that when you sign up for Substack, you add categories of interest to yourself. For example, when I created my Substack account, I chose to receive articles about neurology & psychology, mental health, book clubs, budget travel, fashion trends, photography, self-care, etc. Like any other social media, Substack generates a “For You” page and a following page. My For You page shows me all the different articles from my chosen categories. Another feature I really appreciate is that most articles have an audio option as well; if I’m walking or driving, I can keep indulging in the content. Substack users can also post video-based episodes, but unlike TikTok videos, they are usually podcast-style, talking about things of value, like mental health, neurology, and recipes. This app does not have what other social media have: brain rot.
Now I know why many individuals of this generation struggle with reading; I believe the main reason is that we are used to such short-form content and the continuous practice of scrolling. I love how Substack has made a platform for accessible (in length and in diction) commentary that encourages reading. As someone who loves to read but feels very burnt out by it in college, Substack has been a great way for me to continue to read without committing to a long book. I feel as if when I substitute social media like TikTok or Instagram for an app like Substack, I’m almost practicing a form of self-care.
Well, it turns out I am! According to Nuvance Health, reading stimulates your neural pathways, which enhances cognitive function, memory, and brain activity. Reading can also improve sleep, reduce stress, and lower blood pressure. I don’t know about you, but if I had the option to choose between a social media that improves my health or hinders it, I know what I would choose.
Now that I have covered all the benefits of Substack, I’m going to give you some suggestions of people to follow on Substack. The following authors post articles that really touch me every time. My favorite account on Substack is called Milk and Cookies. I absolutely love this account, and if you are a deep thinker or feel big emotions, you will probably enjoy this writing, too. One of their articles that I absolutely love is called “ The Beauty of the Ordinary.” The author’s writing is profound and gentle, so I highly suggest giving it a read. Another author I love is called the Internet Princess. She writes in a style that genuinely feels like I’m reading her thoughts. (She writes things that I think but would never say out loud.) It’s refreshing and edgy, but so good! There are so many other good writers that I don’t have time to highlight, but please do some digging around on the app if you choose to explore it!
In short, choose to strengthen your mind, become more educated on important topics you enjoy, and refuse to let social media or college textbooks stop you from reading. And if you ever do join Substack, I wish you a wonderful reading journey—and maybe you could even give me a follow (another shameless plug).