Why do we check our cell phones, Facebook, Twitter, and email so often? Part of it may be narcissism and self-absorption. But there is also growing evidence that there is a chemical reward for checking these devices and information sources. Read
Why Information is It's Own Reward.
The constant little adrenaline hits that come from "you've got mail," a Twitter retweet, a Facebook post, etc., however, come with a price. First, constantly checking your cell phone in other people's presence is incredibly rude. Read
"Stop Being Rude and Put Your Cell Phone Away." If you are doing this, you need help. And I say this as one who knows.
Second, for those seeking to reduce stress, anxiety, or depression, these constant adrenaline hits are not helpful. They keep us "revved" up and cause our hearts to race faster.
If you feel that you have either of these problems, here are a few suggestions.
- Go on a one or two week cell phone/computer/media fast. I took a two week fast when I took my D.Min. class with Dallas Willard on Spirituality and Ministry. It showed me that I could exercise self control and resist constantly checking these devices.
- Have a set time you check devices. Check email, for instance, at 10 AM and 4 AM. If you have trouble sleeping, do not check anything anytime close to bedtime-especially anything that you know might be upsetting. Let it wait until the morning, when you are better able to deal with whatever comes.
- Say, "Excuse me," or ask permission if you do have to check a device when in someone else's presence.
- When an impulse comes, say a prayer instead.
Of course, none of this applies to Missional Outreach Network--check it as much as you want! :)
What thoughts or suggestions do you have on checking these devices/sites?
