Spending Too Much Time Online?

Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.  -Hellen Keller 

I read an article in Reader’s Digest which did a survey involving average Internet use among the population.  Five hours a day is the average time people spend online.  78% of people surveyed confessed they had stayed up past their bedtime due to being online.  1 in 16 children under the age of five has a Facebook page.  The number of cell phones in any home is three.  As I consider these statistics I have to say that these numbers are too high and creating problems in peoples’ lives.  These days as I counsel couples facing marital problems, an issue which comes up is one or the other person spending way too much time online.  I even hear talk these days about therapy now available for those dealing with “Facebook addiction.”   

All of this technology is hindering personal growth and keeping people from experiencing the joy of connecting with humanity face-to-face rather than through an Internet chat.  Too much time in front of a computer also causes us to miss out on the joys of being outdoors on a sunny day, pursuing a hobby, or spending time with family and friends.  Sure, Facebook is good for keeping in touch with family who live hundreds of miles away, but be careful not to neglect your spouse, children, or friends who live close by.   

Consider these strategies for connecting again with the real world rather than doing so through technology:

• Resolve to limit the amount of time spent online.  Call me off my rocker, but an hour or two a day seems perfectly reasonable.  If you find you cannot achieve this because the lure of being online is too strong, then it may be time to consult a therapist.  You may be suffering from a form of Internet addiction. 

• Hold a “Tech Free Day” with your immediate family or friends.  Choose a day and go 24 hours without using any form of technology: Computer, cell phone, or TV.  I realize I have lost many people right here as you are thinking such a feat isn’t possible.  Give it a try; you will be astounded at how you grow personally by shutting off those devices for a while. 

• Re-connect with people on a face-to-face basis.  Instead of just chatting online, arrange to meet friends once a week for lunch or just coffee.  Friendships and relationships are among our greatest resources for personal growth.
  

• Engage in good old fashioned reading – in books.  You will be amazed at how you will grow. 

Don’t let technology control you.  It should be the other way around.  It’s going to be a great day – today!