The integration of social media into everyday life has increased dramatically in recent years. Most view it as a positive driving force for social change; however, the over-saturation of social-media driven information in society has become a negative influence with far reaching consequences on the way we interact and work. Ryan Thomas is a senior at Loudoun County High School. He intends to run track in college while pursuing an Ivy-League level education. Ryan is motivated by the impact that he believes he can have on society, and is always striving to be his best. After deleting social media, Ryan was able to see the world in a different light and immediately noticed a positive change in his life. He is an unshakable optimist, and believes that there is always opportunity for change, which he wants to help bring to people’s lives. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx