Cell Phone Overload

Today, cell phones serve more than one purpose. They are game consoles, walkmans (aka iPods), mini-computers, internet and email servers, cameras, photo and video libraries, calendars, and the list goes on. All of these services theoretically are supposed to make life easier, however, they can result in loss of social skills, increased irritation (to you and the people you are with), increased isolation and depression. NBC reported on a study in china that found teens who spent more than 10 hours on the internet were 1.5 times more likely to be depressed. Although more needs to be studied in regards to this issue, it still raises some concern about technology.

Here are some ideas on how to become less “controlled” by technology, and more in-tuned with your life:
Cell Free Zones: create a space in your house or a time in your day (or both) that is free of cell phone calls, texts, emails, alerts. Use this time to read a book, go for a walk, enjoy a conversation with a person sitting right across from you.
Take a “mini-vacation” from your cellular device. In Colorado, the mountains help you take care of that because reception is inconsistent. Many people report that they are more rested and less stressed after a weekend or a long vacation if they did not have access to their cell phone, Blackberries, or iPhones.
No Interruptions: Have you ever been talking with a friend over coffee, when your friend suddenly picks up the phone and starts texting or starts talking on the phone, while giving you the “hold on a minute, this person is more important than you” sign? Have you been guilty of this? Unless it is an emergency, and lets be honest, it rarely is, its rude to answer calls and text other people while you are spending time with someone else, even if its family. This behavior also keeps you from being able to fully enjoy the time with the other person. So next time you are out with someone, atleast put it on silent or vibrate, so you can give your full attention, and make the other person feel like you actually want to spend time with him/her.