cross-posted from: https://lemy.lol/post/43402558

Hey, Privacy community! I wanted to share my personal experience with quitting YouTube, a journey that has been both challenging and liberating.

Initially, I started my deGoogle journey by cutting back on various Google services, but when it came to YouTube, I found it incredibly hard to let go. I tried using alternatives like NewPipe and FreeTube—both fantastic FOSS (Free and Open Source Software) options that allowed me to access YouTube content without the usual Google baggage. However, despite these alternatives, I still felt trapped in the cycle of daily YouTube usage and the addictive nature of the platform.

To tackle this, I decided to take a more drastic approach. I implemented a DNS block using AdGuard DNS and NextDNS, which helped me create a network-wide blocklist for Google services. In the first two weeks, I found myself turning the DNS off occasionally, creating two profiles in NextDNS to allow Google services when I felt the urge creeping back in. It was a struggle, but I knew I needed to break free.

Gradually, I began replacing my YouTube watch time with journaling and diving into topics that truly interested me, particularly various philosophies. After about four weeks, I was amazed to find that I no longer felt the urge to watch YouTube at all! However, I still have my doubts about returning to the platform, fearing it might reignite my addiction and lead me back into a FOMO (fear of missing out) mindset. To safeguard against this, I’ve kept my no-Google filters active in NextDNS.

I also discovered alternatives like PeerTube, thanks to creators like The Linux Experiment and TechLore, who actively post content there. Platforms like Loop, Pixelfed, Mastodon, and Lemmy have also become integral parts of my online life, providing me with a sense of community and connection without the overwhelming distractions of YouTube.

By de-Googling and stepping away from YouTube, I’ve reclaimed so much of my life. While many tout YouTube as a great social platform for mental health, I’ve found the opposite to be true for me. Without the constant distractions and the pressure to consume content that often felt useless, I’ve experienced a newfound clarity and peace of mind.

Now, I have more time to help my mom, focus on my own projects, and enjoy moments of solitude that have significantly reduced my stress levels.

YouTube can be a helpful platform for many, but for me, it was a different story. I initially thought it would lead me to greater privacy and understanding of FOSS services, but instead, I found myself entangled in a web of privacy violations and creepy policies. The community here has been instrumental in guiding me toward FOSS alternatives that respect my privacy.

I’m curious—does anyone else have experiences with quitting YouTube or trying to? I’d love to hear your stories and insights!

  • twofivesforatenor@lemmy.world
    3·
    13 hours ago

    I understand your point. I suspect the main advantage the post isn’t making clear is that PeerTube doesn’t have the same ensnaring algorithm that YouTube does, so it doesn’t keep you endlessly watching the next video or at least suggesting another video to you.

    I think that’s kind of an advantage of a lot of fediverse alternatives is they’re comparatively “boring” in that they force you to be more intentional. They don’t just serve you up the next thing that they’ve calculated you’re likely to engage with. If you subscribe/follow accounts, you’ll see them, but you won’t see content you don’t subscribe to.

    Not that you can’t get just as addicted but it’s at least much less convenient.

    • ocean@lemmy.selfhostcat.comEnglish
      61·
      12 hours ago

      I understand your point. I suspect the main advantage the post isn’t making clear is that PeerTube doesn’t have the same ensnaring algorithm that YouTube does, so it doesn’t keep you endlessly watching the next video or at least suggesting another video to you.

      I honestly find this a negative which is spread around carelessly as a positive. On Peertube I see zero content except linux. On Mastodon I can only either find that one star trek dude, linux and foss dudes, or libs complaining about politics. Lemmy is easier to find stuff but has very little content.

      I’ve let go of all other google and social media formats but youtube has actually good content and honestly a good algorithm. I search for something I want or watch something from my youtube rss feed then it recommends what I want. I have ads and tracking blocked. I only get the content I want.

      I can’t say the same for most of the fediverse honestly.

      I think that’s kind of an advantage of a lot of fediverse alternatives is they’re comparatively “boring” in that they force you to be more intentional.

      That’s honestly just showed me how pointless it all is…