How to maintain a balance while using technology
It would not be incorrect to state that technology has taken over our lives in the past few years, as it has evidently changed the way we relate with our work, our friends and ourselves. While it is important to acknowledge the immense convenience provided through technological advancements, making information as well as people more easily accessible; these advancements could also be a cause of inconveniences! For instance, it has transformed our social circuits and led to social alienation, among other adverse consequences.
Therefore, it becomes important to realize that since technology is here to stay, and is likely to become even more pervasive in our lives. The following are some tips which we could keep in mind to ensure a balanced use of technology:
1. Be willing to explore with an open mind
It is undeniable that technological advancements have some great things to offer; there’s something for each one of us. Therefore, we should be open to changes and advancements. At the same time, we need to be willing to explore our technological milieu before forming opinions and making decisions.
2. Make an objective evaluation before deciding
There is no end to the kind of gadgets and applications that exist today, or to the amount of money that you can spend on them. Be clear about what you need your device for and opt for something that suits your budget and practical requirements. Further, such caution is necessary even when deciding how much time to be spent on using such technology.
3. Avoid making comparisons
We often get caught up in comparing what we have with what others around us have. However, it’s important not to let our material possessions define us, and avoid using such gadgets as a label for deciding our identity.
4. Make intelligent choices
Technology can be used to help us with our work, maintain connectivity and keep ourselves updated with the latest in the world. At the same time, we can use technology to kill time, view distasteful content or impinge on someone else’s personal space. This decision is solely ours, and the world is truly at our fingertips – what we choose to do with it is up to us only, so we need to assume responsibility for these decisions and attain media literacy.
5. Avoid creating a dependence on technology
People often get obsessive about technology, and in the midst of their technological over-dependence, may lose cognizance of other aspects of their lives. However, it is important not to let a technological glitch cripple us, and instead we need to maintain our independence and self-reliance.
6. have a ‘technologyfree zone’
As a family, you could allot certain technology-free zones, which are applicable not just to the children but to all members of the household. For example, meal times could be set aside as time for the family to sit together, and all technological devices need to be put away during this time zone.
7. Don’t let technology replace relationships
While it’s good to embrace technology, and use it to our advantage, we always need to be sure to maintain a balance. We cannot let cell phones and play stations replace friends and family. Often, our dependence on technology makes us forget the true meaning and value of social relationships. The author is directordepartment of mental health and behavorial sciences, Fortis Healthcare.