Digital Overconsumption: Social Media & the Abyss of Going Numb
After I decided to remove all social media apps from my phone, I noticed a significant change in my communication patterns. Suddenly, my phone fell eerily silent, and I didn’t receive any texts or calls for a whole two days. This outcome led me to contemplate the possibility that I may not have any friends at all. Alternatively, perhaps my friends were too engrossed in their digital lives to reach out to me. This thought relentlessly weighs on me and brings me down.
I strongly aversion to succumbing to overwhelming emptiness and detachment, which I’ll refer to as “the abyss of going numb.” My utmost desire is to maintain a constant state of motivation and determination, ensuring that my genuine intentions remain prominent amidst the intricacies of the social landscape. I strive to uphold the authenticity of my being, ensuring that my human bones (metaphorically representing my core values and principles) remain steadfast and unyielding in the vast panorama of societal interactions.
In recent times, I have realised that incorporating activities and seeking out new adventures daily is crucial for maintaining a well-rounded and fulfilling life. I have neglected this for an extended period. Reflecting on this newfound understanding, I am determined to significantly improve this aspect of my life.
Constructing something — establishing a purpose and distancing myself from the uninformed resistance emanating from unfamiliar individuals who attempt to define my identity and dictate my actions — constitutes the utmost importance to me, surpassing even the inherent vulnerability of being human.
I need to reiterate my thoughts and beliefs to convey my message effectively. It is crucial not to become desensitised or indifferent in a world where we are constantly bombarded with excessive information and glued to our screens. Instead, I prioritise my intellectual faculties and ensure my mental well-being remains intact.
On the few occasions I have accused technology of causing me to feel a certain way, I often fail to remember that technology lacks intentions and emotions. It is merely a lifeless entity, incapable of deliberately affecting my feelings. In reality, I am responsible for constructing tragic and inconvenient situations for myself, pushing the boundaries of negativity to its limits.
Maintaining authority over a situation is crucial, but it is equally essential to avoid fixating on it excessively.