Focus Digital Detox

The human spirit must prevail over technology.

- Albert Einstein

Q & R ON DIGITAL DETOX

1 Digital technology is an integral part of most of our lives. How does it affect your way of communicating and your relationships?

2 How could we use the benefits of technology without being overwhelmed by the adverse effects?

3 Do you ever think about how digital technology affects your health and well-being? Do you do anything about it?

In the early ’70s, when I went to London to further my studies, telephone calls were so expensive that I only managed to speak to my parents about 3 times during the first 5 years. The other way was to write and receive letters, but the personal contact was absent. I was a teenager and the lack of communication with family was very traumatic. It is so different now. These technologies allow me to be in touch with my sister and loved ones, who live far away, on a regular basis and with ease. Strangely while the digital technologies bring us closer to those loved ones who are far away, they can add distance with the ones living close to us. A few years ago when I realized that I was sending texts or WhatsApp messages rather than meeting people personally, I started to adopt the approach of first trying for face-to-face communication, especially at work; phone calls or voice calls next; email where I need to record or explain in detail; texts to send short messages like reminders and appointments, or as a last resort. I also try to avoid Facebook other than to follow some inspirational teachers. Take time to talk to a person. The body language and human interaction help a lot; we avoid so many misunderstandings that result from emails. Avoid groups in WhatsApp or Facebook unless the purpose of the group is well defined. Refrain from putting confidential information on any of these platforms. Limit the use of technology to set times. Control the technology rather than letting it control me.