Like many other teenagers, TikTok has become a vital part of my daily routine. I spend so many hours scrolling, creating, immersing myself in the app that I’ve become dependent, and let’s be honest: addicted. 

While it’s not easy for me to say, I hope the app gets banned.

I feel the same as everyone else, wondering “What am I going to do before I go to bed? When I wake up? When I get bored?” Though it’s a harsh reality, it’s one that I know I need to face one way or another. 

It feels like I’m wasting valuable time on something that’s pointless, but it’s hard to stop feeling so interconnected.  Everyone uses social media, and spending countless hours on the app is a general norm for teenagers. 

A ban on the app won’t erase all social media on my phone, so there will still be ways for me to stay connected, as well as addicted. But the “limitless” scrolling available on TikTok often leaves me distracted and unable to focus on a task at hand, something not all other apps have to offer. 

It’s important to note that the foundation on which this ban is taking place has to do with national security concerns. The app has been labeled by Congress as a National Security Risk since the app is owned by “ByteDance,” which has the U.S. government says has dubious connections to the Chinese government. The concern is that the Chinese government could access sensitive data and spread propaganda to its 170 million U.S. users. 

This scary reality regarding data privacy and foreign influence is eye opening to me. It’s concerning to know that the videos I post could be getting into the hands of the wrong people and potentially putting myself in danger. 

Since President Joe Biden signed legislation into law April 24, the ban will take place this Sunday assuming the app fails to be sold . There’s talk of the app potentially getting a 270 day extension, but it seems unlikely that it will hold up – only time will tell. 

I enjoy making videos that capture little moments in my life just as much as the next person, maybe even more. But when it comes down to it, I think teenagers especially could benefit from a reset in their daily routines. And there will always be other outlets to create videos, express ourselves, and stay connected with the important people in our lives. 

I wouldn’t be surprised if another app pops up, or if Instagram becomes the “new” TikTok where I, and everyone else, spend the majority of my time. However, a ban could give us a breath of fresh air, and be a good way to start a new and improved chapter of our lives.