I have been overwhelmed as of late at the thought of so many obligations I’ve signed up for when it comes to my “online presence”. I think that it is my curiosity that has made me feel so tired of it all — a curiosity in what others are doing and to be a part of that which we call a community. Between Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Foursquare, Pinterest — is it all really necessary????
I’m learning to look at this problem with an open mind and eyes open. If the internet disappeared tomorrow, I would likely mourn the loss, but I don’t know that I would miss it. I’ve been on the other side of this “information age” and I can see how there were pros and cons to both sides. Let’s be realistic, though: we are becoming too dependent on the internet for our information and social interactivity.
I’ve read the daily thoughts of a woman named Gwen Bell for the past couple of months, and she has some interesting thoughts about living life more simply and purposefully. She has inspired me to think about what I can give up and mourn the loss and to be more focused on what really matters to me.
Because of these distractions and because I have dedicated 2012 to finding my voice as a writer, I have also taken the time to learn different ways that I can write with minimal or no interruptions. Just tonight, I discovered a simple text processor that plays light music and allows me to write without being distracted by Facebook, Twitter, or email. Thinking now, I have not wanted to check any of those services while I’ve written this post. Most glorious of all glories! I have found my saving grace! I also plan to use the Pomodoro technique as much as possible.
What do you think about the status of the internet? Have you become overly dependent on it? If yes, how do you plan to cut back on some of your activities online?
About Desiree
I like this post... I sometimes ask myself, "What's the obsession with all this technology?" My husband and I often times discuss what we're going to do about our daughter and technology. Should we introduce it to her early so she can be proficient; or should we reserve the introduction for a more appropriate time? And what constitutes a more appropriate time...? It's scary how much little ones know about all-things-tech! Could I live without social networks? Hmm... I hope I never have to answer that question LOL I definitely think I could give up a lot more time, but I'd feel so disconnected to everyone. Social networks make it so easy and convenient to keep up with friends and family. I wouldn't be able to do it "the old fashion way."
BTW, thanks for the great links--I'm going to check them out! :)
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Likeloyallovinglearning I know what you mean about the kids, my own are 10 and 8 and they already know so much more than I did at their age. I plan on steadily taking back my life regarding the social networking aspect and I still plan on implementing the Pomodoro technique. By the way, discovering Gwen Bell's writings has been one of the best things to happen to me in the last few years... well worth a look! Thanks for commenting.
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