It’s no secret that people are attached to their phones. I get it, you can do so much on it, but miss out on a lot from it as well.
About a year ago I realized how much we all use our phones on a daily basis. I was on the C train, and I look up from my phone, and that’s all I see around me everyone’s head looking down at their phones, and I put mine away and think this almost seems so robotic. I remembered how people who were with each other weren’t talking to one another, but looking at their phones and typing and scrolling away. I deleted all my social media apps a couple of months after that because I realized I never really use them, but also because I wanted to be more present and aware of what I’m doing. I am not saying social media is a bad thing, in fact, it can be a good thing, it’s a platform to spread positive messages, but social media is addictive.
When I use my phone I usually use it to check my emails, check for urgent messages or phone calls. I text my friends probably once or twice in a week, and they understand this because they know I’m not a phone person. I also, don’t use my phone that much because of my experiences. For example, I was out with a group of friends once, and everyone was on their phones beside me. I called them out on it, and they apologized, but they didn’t stop. I got upset and annoyed, and at that moment I preferred being at home because they were ignoring me and I went out to talk and have fun, and that wasn’t fun; that’s what I call an unpleasant experience.
I’m not saying people should not be on their phones, but it’s rude when you are with other people because social media isn’t going away, your other friends aren’t going away, and I think if it’s an emergency then I understand. I like to enjoy the moment and always be present, so when I’m with friends or family, I’m never on my phone so that they can have all my attention.
I’ve realized how much I enjoy just preserving the moment instead of doing things on my phone or watching it on my phone. I like to listen to my surroundings and enjoy what I hear, and what I see.
I just find it sad that people don’t talk to one another anymore. There can be a group of friends together, and instead of talking and doing something together, they’re on their phones. People also can’t go a single day without their phones. I don’t just think unplugging can be so refreshing, but also important. It’s good to disconnect so we don’t feel jealous or envious of another person’s life. So we don’t miss out on everything if we keep looking at our phones. Instead of letting technology consume us we should contribute in making this world a better place.