When Scrolling Takes a Turn
What is the saying – “it’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt?”
Okay, maybe hurt is extreme, but if you are like me and while doom scrolling you come across a post – and no I won’t name names – that is so odd, disturbing, crazy, cringy and yet also so perfect you must share with that very specific group of friends who “get it,” then you completely understand why resetting your IG algorithm is necessary for good mental health.
So here’s to reclaiming your feed from the bizarre rabbit hole it’s fallen into—back to puppies giving hugs, sourdough that actually rises, and reaction videos of Gen Z discovering Fleetwood Mac for the first time.
Your mental health (and your friends who are tired of receiving those “you have to see this” DMs) will thank you.
How to Reset Your Instagram Algorithm (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Go to Your Profile
Tap your profile picture in the bottom-right corner to open your profile.
Step 2: Open Settings
Tap the three-line hamburger menu in the top-right corner and select “Settings and activity.”
Step 3: Find Content Suggestions
Scroll down to the “What you see” section and look for “Content preferences.”
Step 4: Click Content Preferences
When you click Content preferences, Instagram willl take to the page where you can add specifics:
Content you are interested in, or not. You can choose to Snooze ⬅️ (should be on a shirt) suggested posts or not be shown post with certain words or hashtags. Basically you get the option to manually adjust your algorithm before hitting the full refresh – if you choose…
Step 5: Click Reset Suggested Content
If you are looking for the full reset, hit the reset suggested content arrow.
Important Notes:
- The reset is permanent, so make sure you’re confident in your decision.
- It may take time for Instagram to “relearn” your preferences after the reset.
Step 6: Hit Next
And now you will be in the fresh start page.
And there you have it—your roadmap back to a feed that sparks joy instead of confusion. 🥳
Remember, algorithms are designed to keep you scrolling, not necessarily to keep you sane. Taking control of your digital experience isn’t just about seeing better content; it’s an act of self-care in a world where our attention is constantly being hijacked. Now go forth and enjoy your newly curated corner of Instagram—at least until the next algorithmic rabbit hole beckons.
But here is one to start you on the right path.
