Snapchat. Facebook. Instagram. Gmail. Repeat. If this is the plan for spring break, then it’s the perfect time to try “unplugging” for a day. To start off my spring break, I decided to take on the “unplugging” challenge and escape from the virtual world I had grown so dependent upon.
The day started off with an uncontrollable urge to scroll through my Instagram feed, a daily task that had somehow integrated into my morning routines. In this moment of weakness, I shut my eyes and held down the power button. There was no second thought about it. As much as I wanted to “like” the newest collages of Chihuahuas and blueberry muffins or watch short clips of Elmo dancing to Rihanna’s hit single “Work”, I made the judgment call to detach myself from the temptations of social media.
It was a struggle, but life moved on. Who knew the rest of my day would turn out to be fun and also productive? I found myself making great progress on a book I had been meaning to finish for the past three months, tending to my newly-grown lavenders, and catching up with some old friends. The day passed by in a blur, but looking at how much fun I had, I would say that it was a success. –Christine Chen
“Unplugging” from electronics and social media for a day seemed like an easy task to handle because I personally did not see myself as someone who’s always glued to her phone. But when I woke up, my first thought was to grab my phone and check Instagram. After realizing how unhealthy that was, I decided to “unplug” myself and get away from electronics.
To pass the time, I made plans to go hiking with some friends. But when I got back home it became more difficult to stay away from my phone. My friend called and, naturally, I felt obligated to answer. I didn’t want to miss out on the latest news she wanted to tell me, so I ended up taking the call and breaking away from “unplugging”.
Looking back, I realized that no matter how much I try to stay in the present, I’m somehow held back by distractions. Even after realizing how difficult it is to “unplug”, I’m still making it a new goal to try to “unplug” at least three times a week. I’ve become accustomed to living a fast pace life, and I decided I want to be more aware of the world around me. I’m excited to see how I can improve my own personal growth. –Crystel Maalouf