Living Beyond Algorithms: Expanding Your World

In today’s digital world, algorithms from social media and streaming services provide us with content tailored to our preferences. While this can be convenient, relying too much on algorithms can limit our experiences, trapping us within the same types of information and shrinking our perspective. In this article, I’ll share some ways to break free from algorithmic influence and expand your world.

1. Listen to Music You’ve Never Heard Before

Music streaming services often suggest songs based on your listening history. While useful, you may find yourself staying within a narrow range of your own preferences. I recommend making it a habit to listen to genres or artists you’ve never explored before.

How to Try It:

• Check out playlists like “Discover Weekly” or “New Releases” on Spotify or Apple Music, and actively listen to genres outside your comfort zone.
• Ask friends or family to recommend their favorite songs. This can expose you to music you might never have found on your own.

2. Use Multiple Information Sources (Utilizing Feedly)

When you rely solely on algorithm-driven news feeds, your opinions and perspectives can become biased. It’s essential to have multiple sources of information. I use RSS readers like Feedly to follow media outlets and blogs from different fields and perspectives.

How to Try It:

• On Feedly, don’t just follow topics you’re interested in — also subscribe to feeds from categories you wouldn’t typically read.
• Read international media or articles with differing perspectives to widen your viewpoint.
• Incorporate non-digital sources like books, magazines, and expert opinions to balance your information intake.

3. Watch Movies and Anime in Unfamiliar Genres

Similar to music, streaming platforms suggest films based on your viewing history. To broaden your perspective, challenge yourself to watch movies from genres you’ve never explored. Doing this exposes you to new themes and values, enriching your creativity and understanding.

How to Try It:

• On Netflix or Amazon Prime, explore genre lists and pick something outside your usual interests.
• Try watching films that are popular with friends or on social media, but ones you might not have considered yourself.

4. Reevaluate Your Social Media Followers

On social media, we tend to follow people who share our interests and opinions, but this can lead to an echo chamber of similar views. Consciously diversifying the people you follow allows you to encounter different perspectives and backgrounds.

How to Try It:

• Follow people with different opinions or from different cultures or countries.
• Look for smaller accounts that share unique perspectives or interests that resonate with you.

However, it’s wise to limit how much you rely on or trust social media. People often present only the best aspects of their lives, dress up the truth, or even misrepresent themselves to gain approval. The best way to gain authentic understanding is through direct conversation and real experiences.

5. Make Regular Offline Time

One of the most effective ways to avoid the influence of algorithms is to create offline time regularly. By setting aside time away from digital devices, you can enjoy a more enriched life and reconnect with yourself.

How to Try It:

• Dedicate weekends or specific times to turn off your smartphone and computer, focusing on reading or engaging in hobbies.
• Spend time outdoors or with friends, emphasizing in-person interactions.

6. Create and Share Your Own Content

Rather than just consuming algorithmically suggested content, create and share your own. By writing blogs or posting on social media, you can break free from passive consumption and contribute to the content landscape with your unique insights.

How to Try It:

• Start a blog or Twitter account where you share your thoughts and interests.
• Promote a lifestyle that incorporates more analog activities, encouraging others to live beyond algorithms.

Conclusion

While algorithms make our lives more convenient, they can also subtly narrow our perspectives. By challenging yourself to listen to unfamiliar music, watch movies in different genres, and get information from a range of sources, you can live a life less influenced by digital algorithms. Additionally, by creating offline time and sharing your own experiences, you can actively shape your world, allowing it to grow in meaningful ways.

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