As much as everyone tells me to take a break from technology and “unplug”, I personally think there are so many reasons to not unplug. Technology is a window to the world and taking a break too often can block that window. It is not how much you use technology that forces you to need to unplug, it is how you use it. If you are smarter about how you browse the Internet and connect with friends, there are so many reasons to not unplug and stay connected.
One of the most important reasons to not unplug is that you would have no idea of what is going on with the world. You tell yourself that you would read a newspaper, but how many of you would actually pick up a newspaper to stay informed? Technology helps us connect to the world around us and informs us of what is going on across the globe. From tweets, to websites, to apps, news is at our fingertips 24/7, which can be a great thing if you utilize it.
We like to think that we would still keep all of our friends if we didn’t have technology, but that technology is changing the way we interact with one another. Rather than unplug completely, use technology to interact more with friends. Skype with friends who live far away, or even start connecting with individuals in a different country and make a new friend.
It is very rare that you don’t use your computer to get work done. Unplugging can put you behind on work and leave you even more stressed out than before. Try to not overload yourself with work to avoid feeling the need to unplug. If you balance work and life, there is no real reason that you should take time away from your technology.
The Internet has an overwhelming amount of information just waiting for you to stumble upon it. It you feel the need to take some time away from friends and work, try using the Internet to provide you with some culture. Learn about countries in Asia, view pictures of European cities, read about an archaeological dig, watch videos of the ballet. The options are literally endless.
People feel the need to unplug when they want to relax and clear their head. But you can do that without having to take a walk on a beach at sunset. Websites like rainymood.com or getrelaxed.com play calming sounds to help you clear your mind. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy all of the calming sounds the Internet has to offer.
If you are feeling down and looking for something to inspire and uplift you, technology is the place to go. There are so many stories of strangers doing good for others, friends helping friends, and incredible acts of kindness being committed across the world. If you are feeling sad, depressed, and down, checking out all of the inspiration is one of the best reasons to not unplug.
We wouldn’t spend so much time with our technology if it made us so unhappy. You do not need to unplug to refresh your mind. You just have to be smarter about how you are using technology. Go to websites that will make you happy, not leave you feeling drained. Sites like calmingmanatee.com and huffingtonpost.com are perfect to bring a much needed smile to your face.
When people tell me that I need to unplug and take a break from technology, I laugh at them. Why should I take time away from my technology when there are plenty of great reasons to not unplug? What did you think of these reasons to not unplug? What are some other reasons to not unplug? Do you think it is a good idea to not unplug?