Digital Detox Week Part Two

My week without technology was fairly easy I believe. I think this was due to the fact that a) I work six days a week and b) I don't use technology as much as the average person does in a day. My daily activities changed relatively little. I read, worked out, did laundry, phoned my mom, biked, went for coffee, baked, wrote letters for Amnesty and cleaned - a pretty standard week.

Nonetheless I did come to some realizations through out my tech-free time. I found that I used technology most at transition points in my day - after work, after supper, and prior to bed. Instead I had time to reflect on my day rather than be distracted by television or the computer. Radio also became a good friend during these times. I would listen to the community station while working out, then switched to CBC while eating supper. It reinforced my love for radio as a medium. It is very enjoyable and educational. The appeal of Facebook became a topic floating through my mind. Although it can serve as a great networking tool it can also be the cause of great procrastination. A few times during the week I wanted to check email and Facebook but I believe this was merely out of curiousity. Finally, I went to bed on time every single night.

I'm not sure I could have gone longer than a week. Not that I am a tech-hungry individual, but as with most of our society I have become accustomed to the freedom and convenience technology offers. However I believe it is important to strike a balance with technology. How much do you let technology control your life and how much are you in check with your use of technology? Or have you ever thought of it? It is simply a matter of willpower and what you want from life. Doing versus watching others. We watch actors on television "achieving" dreams or reading on Facebook of others' accomplishments. We should be keeping ourselves busy doing what is important to us and our goals.