Technology Is Sugar, Spice, Bitter, or a Blend of All?
There are numerous scenarios for how our hyperconnected world might appear in the future. The sparkly-techie-future-vision idea is packed in innumerable variations. Everyday marketing and tech experts use it liberally to highlight their most recent product and lubricate the wheels of consumption.
You might have thought humans can manage any amount of technology until now. But do you think it’s true?
With so many technologies available, people usually wonder how much technology is enough for them, and so do I! Once in life, this question comes into everyone’s mind, no? Therefore, I think how much technology is too much for us is the most crucial question that needs much attention. Consequently, to provide the crux, I have highlighted some essential aspects. Let’s have a look!
The Sugar
Let’s begin with the advantages that technology provides. We are undeniably more connected than ever, meaning that most of our family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones are only texts, calls, emails, or video chats away. Take a moment to admire this blessing!
Even if being apart for whatever reason, we can still communicate in real-time with the people that matter the most. Technology also allows us to continue working, communicating, attending school, shopping, seeing doctors or therapists, playing games, and getting up-to-date on current events.
Today’s resources enable effortless learning, sharing, and creation in a truly global setting. It makes all the tasks more manageable. For instance, Google’s product suite allows you to write, format, present, calculate, collaborate, remember, and share from a single platform. Isn’t it amazing?
However, the sad part is when there is sugar, there must be spice too — so what is it? Continue reading to find out.
The Spice
Although technology has many incredible advantages, excess of anything is not a good thing. Due to our hyperconnectivity, we often find it challenging to unplug or make time for relaxation. As a result, it may be more challenging to completely unwind when we need to rest, which may also contribute to feelings of tension or tiredness.
How do you know when to quit if you might always work, learning, or catching up? Giving ourselves time and space is essential; our mental health requires setting boundaries and fostering mindfulness.
It’s crucial to be vigilant of any potential bodily repercussions of constant connectivity. Spending much time glued to screens or on our devices can cause symptoms including eyestrain, hand or wrist pain, and lack of sleep.
Give your body a rest and invest in your long-term health because overuse problems like text neck, BlackBerry thumb, and others are on the rise, especially if you spend much time using screens for work, play, or education.
The Bitter
Unfortunately, there are even graver threats when much of our time is spent in digital environments. Online anonymity and the impression of being somewhat distanced from the situation can cause us to say things we wouldn’t usually speak in a face-to-face setting.
When combined with the speed at which information can be shared, this can easily lead to uncomfortable or even deadly situations. It’s crucial to allow oneself time apart from virtual settings to practice mindfulness (and time to process distressful feelings when they arise).
Our cyberspace has many unfavorable side effects, including the dissemination of false information or outright lies, the prevalence of bullying and cyberattacks, and other unpleasantries’. It results in mental health illnesses, including anxiety, sadness, addiction, and others.
Social media have drastically impacted feelings of achievement, inclusion, and belonging, and these feelings stay with us in our everyday lives. Thus, it is crucial to take care of what you consume and not accept anything you read or hear at face value.
The Blend of All — What’s The Solution?
Now we know technology's sugary, spicy, and better aspects, but is it a blend of all, or what’s the solution?
Everything is in moderation, as everyone says! Setting some sensible boundaries is all that’s required! You don’t have to delete your accounts or toss your computer out the window to establish a positive relationship with technology; some genuinely excellent solutions are available.
To avoid looking at your phone when you wake up in the morning, try charging it somewhere other than your bedroom. Practice turning off your devices when you’re eating or working out. Set time restrictions for your TV, tablet, and computer.
Turn off notifications to make yourself less likely to pick up your mobile device frequently — set boundaries for when you intend to work or do essential chores and when a break is necessary.
Consider whether analog learning methods are more effective than digital counterparts, such as writing down your notes by hand rather than typing them. Try different things and see what suits you. The most crucial thing is to regularly check in with yourself to know how you’re feeling.
Nutshell
Take a moment and think: Am I genuinely gaining anything from utilizing this technology? Is this tool being used intentionally and deliberately, or has it taken on a life of its own? Do I receive a greater return on my time, money, or energy investment? Your self-analysis and objectives can help you better manage your time and technology.
Until now, you understand what role technology plays in your life and what should be done to favor your well-being. I have explained all the vital aspects, now the ground and decision are yours!