A Digital Dilemma

Happy New Year!

I find it curious that several articles have appeared in this first week of the new year about the importance of disconnecting from digital devices. I'll share two with you, both from The New York Times.

The first was the cover article of the Sunday Review section, "The Joy of Quiet", which described the need for quiet and stillness in order to recharge. The second is "Disruptions: Resolved in 2012: To Enjoy the View Without Help From an iPhone", where the author talked about his iPhone obsession.

The continual interaction with mobile devices - what with talking, texting, emailing, tweeting, Googling, Skyping, taking photos - has reached massive proportions. We have become slaves to these devices.

When we constantly abbreviate and catalogue, we offset our ability to think critically and reflect. Ultimately, this has an impact on everything from creative thinking to problem solving. In effect, our brains rewire as neurological processing changes.

Being incessantly tethered to digital devices diminishes our ability to concentrate and focus. It's impossible to be at our personal best when we surrender to constant interruptions.

This topic isn't new. But since now we're able to carry around the equivalent of a desktop computer in our hand, the underlying issues have intensified.

As you think about what you might do differently in 2012 (remember New Year's resolutions?), consider how your digital device can serve you, rather than you being a slave to it.

Have a great week!