by Maria Teresa L. Ungson
HAVEN’T you noticed how attached we are to our computers? Oh yes, don’t deny it! Our laptops, notebooks and desk tops have been transformed into our regular everyday “companion.” These equipments have actually “replaced” family, friends and relatives. Long ago, it would be a mortal sin to leave behind or forget your cell phone. Nowadays, it would be unthinkable to leave your laptop or notebook. The computer hooks us to the internet that is really good company in coffee shops while waiting for your appointment.
So here comes a new form of addiction….to the internet!
So, just how far has this addiction gone so far? In the U.S., 49% Of women ages 18 to 34 would forgo sex for two weeks rather than give up the internet. Hmmm…..let’s start counting how many times our partner would say “not now honey, let’s do it later” and you catch then in front of the computer busy surfing the internet. But don’t fret you can do the same to them later.
So why is the internet such good company? Such as in any form of addiction, it provides some form of “high.’ It let’s us be “unconnected but still connected” in the same time. How’s that? Once we hook up the internet, our “relationship” with the internet begins. We get engrossed at the enormous amount of information that we can access through the internet. It provides entertainment, knowledge and updates on the latest. What’s more, the internet does not start a fight with you. In other words, it appears to be great company in this very busy world we live in. Internet continues to connect us to the world. It can also provide other services such the e-banking services wherein we can pay our bills or shop without leaving our home. It is quite understandable why we “love” the internet. It’s just so “in” and amazing.
But not everyone in an internet addict. How do we spot them? Check these out…
People who need to constantly open their email or surf the internet because they feel that they need to respond to all their messages;
People who would skip meals because they’d rather work online;
People who would rather connect with friends and relatives and loved ones through the internet even if they could actually meet or call each other;
They would rather forgo social events and gatherings rather than forgo the internet;
Lovemaking can take a backseat while they’re still busy online;
The computer becomes an indispensable “partner”
Did you say “ouch?” So, much of us are into the internet. It’s part of our lifestyle. It’s our friend that keeps us posted on news and developments worldwide. Let us remember though that computers and the internet cannot replace people or good “live” company with friends. Why? When we deal with people all our senses and emotions are on the go. We still need to connect to people because they make us feel good and warm all over. And it’s always better to come face to face with a person and enjoy good conversation with him/her. This is something that the internet and computers are unable to do.
If you know of a person “addicted” to the internet here are some suggestions to address this high tech addiction:
Set a time for surfing or to check messages in the email. Do not be a “slave” to the internet. But those who do business through the internet are exempted from this.
Have another diversion. Get into sports, enroll in a gym or dance lessons, or simply read a good book or travel.
Spend more time with family and friends. Re-learn how to relax and enjoy the company of friends and relatives.
Meals should be taken on time and not after you’re through with the internet. God knows, you might shut down the internet at 4 a.m.
Spend quality time with your partner. The internet should not be more important than your partner.
Use other forms of communication such as phones, text, or through old fashioned mail.
Computers and the internet are a wonderful invention…very useful and “friendly” to the point of addiction. Let’s keep in mind that people are more important that this and that we should not stop connecting with people personally. Again, this technology was invented to facilitate information sharing and communication but not to totally replace quality time with family and friends because in the long run, it would be this very group of people who will listen to your problems and help you solve them.
