Are you addicted to the internet? I had the pleasure of not only one of the BEST vacations I’ve ever had, but I also realized many, many AHA moments during my stay on Treasure Beach, Utlia, Honduras. One of them…My internet addiction.
We live in such an info overloaded society that I think we don’t even realize how dependent and addicted to internet, TV and our Smart Phones we have become.
Cant Put it down…
How many people do you know and maybe you’re one of them, that can’t even put their phone down during a meal or while talking to someone??? I’ve done it. What’s so important that it can’t wait for 20-30 minutes? NOTHING!
Before…
I left on my trip, I knew I would be without TV (not a big deal to me) and even my phone ( didn’t get the international add on), but I was ok with that, because I thought I was going to have Internet. I did plan on un-plugging to a certain extent, but like any addict I felt comforted to think that I would still have limited access.
Well, the universe had other plans for me and you know what? I’m very grateful it did. 
Being without my lifeline to the cyber-world made me realize the following things.
What one can realize sans the internet on an island in the caribbean…
- I was addicted to having access to info at any time or place.
- I was used to allowing myself to be sucked into the Social media time trap.
- I was addicted to checking my e-mail and re-sponding immediately.
- I was never really present as much as I thought.
Do any of those realizations ring a bell? Bottom line, this stuff not only affects our quality of life, but there’s also a direct relationship to our health and well-being. And that’s my main purpose for sharing my story.
After…
Vacation and during my re-integration to reality this week I’ve made myself a promise and along with that I pose a challenge to you which is to:
Unplug one day per week for 30 days.
I’m picking Sunday. What day will you pick? Let us know in the comment section below. You’ve got nothing to lose and only emotional re-connection with those most important to you and some peace and quiet to do the things you love to gain.
Hiya Deb,
I’m so glad you came here, and am grateful to you for sharing your inner experience.
I came here almost three years ago for a “working vacation” and now have a hard time imagining myself anywhere else.
I left a busy…frantic…lifestyle, and while I’ve always been a gererally happy person, I don’t think I was every really peaceful. I have the internet….slow internet!…and rarely download anything of any length, and phone service to the states, while inexpensive, is spotty and frequently frustrating. So what? I haven’t lost touch with my true friends in the US, and I’m fairly up on current events. What have I gained? The knowledge that unless catastrophe strikes, what is here today will be here tomorrow. What needs to be done will be done, and most important, the things I had, and those I coveted, were just that: things. I have made more real friends here in three years than in my entire life before. I don’t need stuff. I don’t need to earn a hundred thousand dollars a year to break even. I don’t need stress. I don’t need friction. I don’t need to rent my house from a bank. It’s not escapism, it’s reality, and life lived as it can be lived: swimming in the sea, taking a nap, working (hard!) when it’s needed, laughing to the same joke, seeing people who want to see me, and understanding that living the life here is simple, but not always easy.
Glad you could unplug, at least for a week. I hope a lot of people take you up on your once-a-week challenge, and even more follow your example, and go someplace the electronic temptations are limited or even stymied. It’ll probably lower the National blood pressure a few points.
Take care…hope you’re planning your return trip!
Peter
Thank you Peter, Captain Dave and Trish for making the experience extremely enjoyable and complete. You all represent a fine example of what life’s really all about. Thanks for your comment too! I also hope many, many others take me up on my offer and spread the word.
Seems like more and more people are noticing this addiction, and the lucky ones like you are embracing all the things they missed in that addicted tech daze. I published a similar article today called Unplugged is the New Connected ( http://arthurcoddington.com/unplugged-is-the-new-connected).
Love the challenge! An entire day will be hard but ill go for Sundays too 🙂
It is tough, just completed my 1st Sunday. But you know what? Felt so good. All I had to worry about was connecting with each and every person I came in contact with that day and doing all types of other outdoor activities that I love. Good luck and keep me posted how it goes next week.
Just read your article Arthur and LOVED it! I’m really enjoying my new perspective. Technology is great but, life’s too short to miss the interpersonal connections.
thanks for the great reminder, deb! my family and i spend a lot of time online – primarily for work and for school, but still “plugged-in.” however, we do continue to have wonderful discussions during meal times – a tradition we started long ago when my two sons were small. and we are all very active people as well. i’m grateful that we’ve managed to maintain this balance in our lives.
I think Sunday is a great day to unplug! And it is easier said than done for me LOL
Deb, unplugging for one day a week…GREAT IDEA! I might change it up and say that after 7pm everyday no more checking emails, social media updates, etc. Now to get my partner on board too!
It takes an experience like yours to open our eyes sometimes. I decided a few weeks ago that I spend too much time online, particularly on social media sites. I realized I was often feeling down after being online. I now check social media once per day and I disconnect in the evenings and weekends. I am getting more done around my house and have been enjoying reading more! I love your challenge!
Love it April that your family still dines together and actually interacts. It’s so nice to see such a great example of a balanced and active lifestyle!
Thanks for this post. I find that nowadays, we need to be more purposeful in taking breaks from technology. On occasion I may even procrastinate getting my work done and that’s usually a sign that I need some time off…
this post is a great reminder…
Sonia
Deb, My name is Fred and I’m addicted to the internet.
I have given up almost all TV and Radio, but now I spend way to much time on the computer. My future, my business, and my brand demand that I give a great deal of my time to the computer and the internet. However, you’re points are well taken. I know that there are times where I’m only wondering around the internet and not actually working or helping others.
My pledge is to do better about my time on the Web.
I hear ya Tora! The only thing that saves me is that I live in such a beautiful place and there’s tons to do outside to keep me away from my electronics.
Love your idea of unplugging daily too Dr. J. Although I have noticed since arriving home I haven’t had the desire to be plugged in as much as before I left. So I guess that’s good right? As with anything in life…moderation usually works best.
Totally agree Sonia. I think it’s healthier to take purposeful breaks.
Thanks for your comments Fred. It’s so easy to get lost and wander around on the internet. Becoming more purposeful is a great goal. Going to try to do the same thing. I know I’ve done my share of time wasting when I could have been much more productive helping others.