I find myself sometimes a little lost in this world immersed in technology. Yes, there are many “screens” that make my job more comfortable and more convenient…but, at what cost?
Most of us walk around with our deluxe phones in our pockets all day long, which offers a world of information truly at our fingertips. Conversations with friends and even strangers now involves reaching for our phones for the assistance of some sort – a picture, the date of an event, confirmation of a fact all in an instant.
Questions we previously bounced off each other are now answered with a few touches on a screen. Once the screen is opened, …we see a text or notification we missed, then distraction hits, quickly leaving us wondering why we first looked at the screen. Sound familiar?
Here are some thoughts…
Take a “screen vacation” – a planned or even spontaneous 30 minutes or
up to a day (gasp!) with no screens.
Do you need to know that somewhat meaningless fact right at this moment? Reconsider…
When riding in a car or sitting parked and waiting…converse with your fellow riders or observe the scenery – nature is amazing, and we live in a beautiful state.
Set aside some screen-free time in the evening – play a board game, have a conversation, make some cookies, create a meal.
Stop and listen when someone is speaking to you – give them your undivided attention. Maybe that person really needs someone to completely hear them at that moment.
When eating dinner (at home or out), hold tight to a no-screen policy…enjoy the company you keep.
I do believe that technology is a good thing. Countless lost pets are found thanks to social media. Families in trouble are helped back on their feet with “Go Fund Me” campaigns. Separated loved ones are reunited. Many people have even found the love of their life by seeking a companion online.
It is true that our phones and other screens serve many purposes and make some things in life a little easier and convenient.
However, “There is more to life than increasing its speed,” Gandhi said. Just remember to use that time you gain to give some extra attention to those humans who will indeed be at your side when you need them. An actual shoulder to cry on. A smiling face to laugh with you. These are the people who are IN your LIFE.
The best gift you can give this Christmas season to those who love you is a new habit of sharing with them more of your undivided time and attention.
