Our use of technology has many positive aspects. However, for a lot of us (myself included), it also involves textbook signs of addiction. For this assignment you must set aside at least 24 continuous hours with some type of technology prohibition enforced. You can set up your own parameters but at the very least, you cannot get on social media or browse the internet (email can be allowed if you choose). The more you limit yourself, the more you will get out of this assignment.

1) Realization of an unhealthy addiction to certain technology
2) Surprised at how productive and fun your day was when you could focus on other things
3) The difficulty of some everyday things without technology (changing plans with friends, checking the weather, etc.) 4
) Discovered a desire to have more face-to-face interactions
I want you to be completely honest with me so if you broke down and couldn't do it, say so. Then talk about what you learned from your inability to go just 24-hours without technology.

1 answer

I have to admit that the thought of going 24 hours without technology seemed daunting to me at first. I realized that I indeed have an unhealthy addiction to certain technologies, especially social media and internet browsing. These habits consume a significant portion of my daily routine, sometimes without me even realizing it. So, with determination, I embarked on this assignment with the hope of gaining some insights.

The first few hours were tough for me. I found myself instinctively reaching for my phone, wanting to scroll through my social media feeds or read the latest news articles. However, as time went on, I started to appreciate the freedom that not being constantly tethered to my devices provided.

Surprisingly, I found that I was much more productive and efficient throughout the day. Without the distractions of notifications and endless scrolling, I was able to focus on tasks at hand with full concentration. I completed pending assignments, cleaned my living space, and even engaged in hobbies that I had neglected for a while. I could feel a sense of accomplishment without the constant need for external validation from online platforms.

Another realization I had was the difficulty I faced in managing certain everyday things without technology. I rely heavily on technology to check the weather, communicate with friends, and make plans. Without these tools, I had to resort to alternative methods like calling my friends to discuss plans or relying on traditional weather forecasts. It was a bit inconvenient, but it also made me realize that I had become overly dependent on technology for even the simplest tasks.

Moreover, not having access to technology made me crave more face-to-face interactions. I realized how much I had taken for granted the personal connections I built through physical interactions. The absence of constant virtual communication made me yearn for genuine conversations and meaningful connections with others. It was a reminder that technology should not replace the essence of human interaction.

However, I must admit that I struggled to completely adhere to the 24-hour technology prohibition. I broke down after around 18 hours and found myself mindlessly scrolling through social media. It was disappointing to give in to my impulses, but it also taught me an important lesson.

From my inability to go just 24 hours without technology, I learned that breaking free from addictive technology habits takes time and effort. It is not an easy task and requires a conscious, ongoing commitment. Understanding one's vulnerabilities and triggers is crucial in order to develop healthier habits.

Overall, this assignment opened my eyes to the extent of my technology addiction and the effects it has on my productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. It reminded me to strive for a more balanced approach towards technology and to prioritize real-life experiences and connections.