A family sits around the table, and the room is silent except for a T.V. humming in the background. Each family member is gazing intently below them, absorbed by the fluorescent glow of a screen. Although they are all in the same room, they may as well be on different planets as they do not seem to be remotely aware of each other’s presence. Sound familiar?

While cell phones, tablets, and laptops can be effective, convenient ways to communicate and obtain information, they are also a huge inhibitor of meaningful social interactions and being present. While technology began innocently in the form of desktop computers and landlines, it evolved into something much more distracting and advanced that ended up taking over our daily lives. Especially detrimental are social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and many others. Social media allows us to know people without even meeting them, and oftentimes we even form opinions about people based off of their internet persona. An example of how this affects us is the world of dating. Previously, if you wanted to go out with someone, you knew them or had mutual friends, and the purpose of the date was to get to know the other person better. Now, with access to social media and online dating websites, you can learn practically everything about a person before having a single conversation with them.

Not only does technology alter the way we connect with and view people, but it also affects the ability to concentrate and do things we are truly passionate about. I feel sad when I think about all the time I have wasted on my phone when I could have been doing something valuable like spending time with my family, reading or taking up a new hobby. Even going for a walk is more productive than staring at a screen for hours on end because going for a walk is a great way to clear your head and enjoy the surroundings. Recently, I have taken a long hiatus from my phone, and I have been able to have better conversations and rediscover things I enjoy such as reading, writing, and playing the guitar.

While it is unrealistic for most people to completely disconnect from technology, it is reasonable to limit your technology time. If you really want to challenge yourself, try taking a break from social media for a few days or even a week. You may be surprised how it affects your daily life. By just cutting back on technology and social media a little bit, you will notice a difference, and I promise you won’t miss those few hours of phone time as much as you think you would.