Let’s face it…most of us, at some level, addicted to some form of technology. Whether it’s television or the always-addictive Facebook. Nowadays every child has a cell phone and an iPod. However, overuse of cell phones, computers, and iPods are having a negative effect on teens and college students. Everyday people in our technology-driven world are lured into technology addiction. Psychologists are claiming that technology addiction is just as socially devastating as alcoholism. With new gadgets being created constantly, it’s no wonder that this addiction is growing. So here are some tips on how to curb your addiction or prevent it from happening.
TURN IT OFF
How can you focus on what you need to if you’re constantly being distracted by your phone going off or a message popping up? Turning it off is the most effective way to not be distracted.
Focus on the people in your presence
The people around you are there for a reason. Wouldn’t you hate it if you were with your best friend or significant other and they weren’t paying any attention to you? So put the cell phone down or close the laptop screen. Show them you are there physically AND mentally.
Check your messages later
on your own time. Don’t sit in class and check your phone every few seconds. You’re there for a reason and should be paying attention, even though it can be very boring.
Out of sight, out of mind
It may seem like a good idea to have a device that does everything, however, it’s one of the most distracting. For example, let’s say you just take your phone out to check the time. Well, that turns into checking Facebook, then to your email, then just browsing the Internet and other networking sites. So it’s best to find other ways to check the time.
Don’t apologize
When you apologize for not answering someone back right away or missing a phone call, you’re just reinforcing the fact that you are addicted to technology and immediate responses. You should be celebrating the fact that you have the ability to respond when you want.
So, the moral of this article is: There’s a time and a place for using technology. You’d think that texting while driving would be an obvious no-no, but it seems a lot of people still do it. If you’re spending time with another person, it’s etiquette to give them your full attention. Etiquette also helps regulate and limit your use. So next time you’re at the dinner table or sitting in class, turn off the cell phone or ignore the messages.
How addicted to technology or, more specifically, Facebook are you? Could you spend a whole week without the Internet?