Addicted To Distraction?

Somehow, ever so slowly, distraction has become the norm in our work world and lives. And we let it happen. We didn't even fight it. We gave in. Sure we know better. We want to be better, yet we still just gave in. Why? Because it is simply easier to be lazy, to be passive. To be aimless. Besides, those “things” that distract us are so interesting and important… Or are they?

What would a missed email really do to your life, especially on a Saturday night at 9pm? Does a "like" or silly "emoji" from some person you've never met, really improve the quality of the relationships right in front of you? You know, that person right across from you, that you are ignoring. Yeah, they have noticed you looking at your phone and they are not pleased... Does missing the latest FB or insta-story really leave you in the dark or missing something life altering? Seriously.

Yes, all these shiny little do-dads are very interesting and extremely addictive. They were designed to high jack your brain. Each dose giving you a little hit of dopamine, just enough so that you keep on feeding off them.

Now here the problem. This is ruining your life. But you already know that. You know you've become less social (with real people), you've lost some of your "in person" charm and charisma. Your ability to be engaging and charming has likely taken a hit. And probably most critical, you have lost your ability to concentrate and focus for extended periods of time. Be honest with yourself. You know these things are true.

My guess is that even reading this short little post you were pulled in another direction at least once... The interesting thing is all these incredibly creative apps, programs, websites and games, and AI that keep distracting us are not actually the problem. We are. We have let ourselves become driven by distraction to the point that it feels almost innate, and not in a good way. We have become mentally and socially lazy.

As you head into your weekend think about leaving your device behind, even if just for a short period of time. Yes you will feel jittery. You'll feel like you lost an appendage. You might even suffer withdrawl symptoms, but the person you are with will really appreciate it. Try it, you may just just feel liberated... at least for a short time.

Be well.