Minimizing Tech Use
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Compromise Tech, To Stay in the Real World
We are currently in the age where technology is largely dominating the marketplace. As a result, it has started many debates on how people go with their lives. Some would argue that it has invaded too much of the personal lives of people. Certain groups will argue that technology is the future, and that society should simply adapt to it. Despite the beliefs that go about, it is possible to live with technology that does not involve abusing technology. Knowing the methods to do so is the key to finding a healthy compromise.
Technology is not necessarily a negative advancement in the modern age. People have used it to take pictures when visiting new places, set reminders for important events, and as a form of quick communication. The issue people take is that it potentially regresses the development of a human brain. Though the benefits are strong, using technology arguably restricts creativity and human practicality, which is why striking the correct balance with tech use is important.
Digital calendars and notepads specifically come to focus because many people have owned a physical version prior to the rise of technology’s popularity. Though convenient, writing down notes on a device (i.e. tablet or phone) could potentially create an overreliance on technology. The traditional route of writing on physical paper creates a stronger hands-on experience. Handwriting tends to make memorizing what is being written easier, and better engages the fine motor system. Tangible forms of notetaking take up slightly more physical space, but will create something that greatly develops the mind.
Spending many hours on applications such as Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok are examples of possibly putting critical thinking skills at risk. It is particularly common to overuse these platforms and not realize it. A simple, yet effective, way to ease social media time is setting a daily time limit. Plan one or several time blocks to a current schedule for when social media is expected to be used. Then decide a time during the day to stop using social media overall. In case time is lost sight of, a simple method to avoid being on social media for longer than planned is setting an alarm. Browsing on apps can be an adequate source of entertainment when used sparingly, however it should not be made something that can not be lived without.
A device by itself can assist with minimizing technology usage through its settings. First, turn off notifications for apps that are not a necessity. This option limits the temptation of using the application for more time than expected. Second, replace the device wallpaper with something simple to make the device less desirable. Finally, do a rundown of every application downloaded on that specific device. At this stage, determine which apps are really needed or wanted. The ones that are not should be deleted. Removing features of a device that pulls someone in does wonders to reduce screen time.
Being conscious of how technology is utilized could pose a challenge. Many individuals are well adapted to the technology of the modern age. It is difficult to reduce tech time because of how inescapable it is in today’s landscape. With this in mind, stepping back to think about how technology is established in everyday activities, will become beneficial to ensure the real world will not be forgotten.