"Hello, my name is Cathy Chester and I am a social media addict."
"Hello, Cathy."
"I don't know what to do. When I wake up in the morning I grab my laptop, make my morning coffee, feed my cats, sit down and check my Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and LinkedIn accounts. I've been known to watch movies at home with my husband while responding to Facebook friends. My college-age son says he doesn't know anyone who uses their cell phone more than me. Really? More than his college buddies? Can I help it if I have 6 games of Words with Friends that I like to play? Keeps the brain active, you know"
"Well, that does sound serious, Cathy. What do you think you should do?"
"I think I need a day of rest."
"OK, that sounds wise. Try taking small baby steps forward, maybe unplugging an hour at a time until you build up a day with no social media."
"A whole hour, and then a DAY?"
"Yes. You are serious about ridding yourself of this addiction, aren't you?"
"Um, I think I'm more serious about taking a Sunday break just for today. I do need to keep in touch with the world, and don't want to miss a thing with any of my groups. But I'll try your advice on taking a break from it a whirl, ok? Thanks. See you around!"
Phew. Escaped that debacle.
Seriously, I love social media (after weeding out the scammers, madcappers and nonsense we all come across.) I learn from wise, knowledgeable and amazing women I call my colleagues and friends. I reach out to family and friends across the country (and around the world) who continue to inspire, enlighten and comfort me. Social media can be an extraordinarily remarkable and powerfully important component in our lives when used correctly.
Now I'll share with you how my Sunday will include taking some time away from my laptop, giving me a break and some important being-with-hubby time, with both eyes focused on our coupledom. Don't worry. I'll be back soon!
Listening to live jazz:
A day of rest from cooking (Here's Anthony Bourdain, a Jersey boy, and his No Reservations TV show about restaurants in New Jersey):
And, of course, my beloved Downton Abbey:
While snuggling with my cats:
Max
I hope you all have an enjoyable Sunday!
Not sure whether I should comment, as you're not here! I understand what you're saying and see myself in your self-portrayal! Yikes.
Ha! Too funny.. I see myself in your self-portrait and think the idea to take a break is a great idea.
Very funny and it certainly touches a nerve. Downton Abbey is the highlight of winter Sundays in my house as well. Love this.
Oh, hell. I was going to take a break too but couldn't make it past 10:00! Enjoy your day.
Funny, I was quite literally just contemplating something similar--and thinking about heading out to my Sunday afternoon knitting group, which I've neglected woefully over the past month and a half. I like your suggestions of jazz, non-cooking, and Downton Abbey; I'd go with knitting, spinning, and theatre, but it amounts to the same thing. Unplug, relax, refresh.
This post spoke to me, loud and clear. I find when I take a break I spend extra time catching up when I'm back ... so I'm not sure how much that is helping me. Anytime you need a buddy at your support meeting, give me a call. 🙂
I hope you aren't reading this today -- but just had this same conversation with myself. I made it until 2:40 p.m. before booting up :). Great blog. Thanks!
I fully admit that social media has become a huge part of my life. To this I say, "so what?" It's spurred me on creatively, introduced me to many fabulous people, and opened up a career path for me that I never dreamed of just a few years ago. Having said that, I do agree that a few hours away can be beneficial for anyone!
Enjoy your Sunday off, my dear. Balance is everything. I take days off, too. I have to or I'd go insane. The internet is a 24/7 buffet and it'll be here when you get back.
All of us need a break sooner or later :>)
Boy, oh boy, Cathy does this sound familiar. Joining the GenFab group will not be good my social media addiction, but it's great for my soul! Glad to have connected!