How we can live a good life alongside technology
We have developed many tools but technological advancement is one of our most impressive developments, yet it comes with some of the most harmful impacts.
We create technology, use the technology and as a result, we are changed by our use of the technology. We are in a loop of creating, being changed from our use of interacting with the creation and creating more from our changed self. How we change is in the management of our use in awareness of the impact of the use. As in, if it is affecting us negatively, are we reducing our use to reduce our negative impact?
Technology can lead us to a good life if we monitor and manage our use. This is done through effective reflection on our interactions with technological devices and the management of our use of them in response.
Technology is a powerful tool designed to help us, only it also hinders our development if not used consciously.
For a week, keep a record of:
1. What technology you use, what programs on that technology, for how long and at what time of day.
2. Your well being; how much sleep you get, exercise, how you feel, energy levels, etc.
Compare the two sets of data and see what correlations you can find. Review use that impacts your well being. For the technology that you need to use which affects you negatively, implement plans for when and how you will use it.
It is well known now Bill Gates and Steve Jobs raised their children with limited technology. What does this tell you?
A good life is different for everyone. Only you can reflect on what is working well or impacting you negatively. It is up to you to manage those impacts in your life.
If you are struggling with refection and/or self-management, reach out. It is healthy and wise to seek help.
Photo by Efe Kurnaz on Unsplash