Unplug

I remember the first time I got my hands on a computer. I must have been 8 years old. It was the first generation of Mac computers. Yes, I’m that old… 

I was obsessed with that computer. There weren’t many programs. My dad had installed Rosetta Stone as well as an automated reading program for children. I started to learn Spanish by furiously clicking on the images. I would run from school for lunch break to type up my fairytales. I liked typing and hearing the stories retold to me.My father saw my interest and got me a video editing program with cartoon characters.

All this contributed to my obsession with technology.

Then, came MSN Messenger. I could now chat hours on end with my friends about everything and just absolutely nothing. I became addicted to it. I had found a way to connect with my school friends without being too awkward. 

Facebook was also a revolution. For a person, who didn’t have many friends at school, Facebook was a blessing. I could catch up with my friends from around the world, friends I met at youth workshops. 

Then came Twitter. I remember using twitter as a platform during the 2012 student strike in Quebec. Discussions were heated and instantaneous.

Instagram and Snapchat were added to the list.

All this at the tips of my fingers.

—————————-

Now, I can’t help feeling bombarded by information. I feel overwhelmed. Let’s just say, I am addicted to technology. 

It’s gotten pretty bad.

I used to read every night before going to bed. I don’t anymore. I get sucked into using my phone. I watch meaningless things. I mean, how many cat videos can I watch in a night. I sleep less. I arrive at school tired because I just had to play with my phone.

I’m basically wasting my time.

————————

I need technology. I need to stay connected with others. I need Facebook to do group work. I need it. I need it. I need it. I need Snapchat to stay in the loop. I need it to feel a part of the “squad”. I need my two Instagram accounts: a personal one and one for my blog. I need it. I need it. I need it. I need Twitter to share all my thoughts even the ones I should probably keep to myself. I NEED SOCIAL MEDIA. 

————————

Is this healthy? I suppose not. 

How do I get out of this vicious cycle? I have a few ideas and I’ll share them in a future post.

Like they say: “The first step is acknowledging what you’re doing that’s wrong.”