Fighting Internet Addiction

It is so difficult to get away from the internet these days, especially because for some it is their livelihood. But sometimes one can be so absorbed in the “virtual” world that the “real world” can be far away. I, myself am somewhat addicted to the internet. I write blogs, check emails, play games, but I know that I have to take breaks or not be continuously on the internet because it can wear me down.

Here are some techniques that have worked for me:

1. Emails

   I try to limit checking emails to twice a day and only when I wake up in the morning and finish one task. It is kind of scary when someone replies consistently within an hour of when you sent it.

2. Other people’s blogs

   I limit reading other people’s blogs to twice a day.

3. Breaks

   This is a great way not only to relax my eyes tired of staring at the computer screen, but also to get a refreshing dose of the real world.

4. Limit IM

   I try to do the cell phone or face to face talking. I am introvert so I am comfortable with communicating non-verbally most of the time, but I feel that you miss the nuances and true meaning through IM sometimes.

5. Have “NO-internet” vacations

   It is tempting when pretty much all hotels have wireless internet, but I try to squeeze in some “no-internet” vacations just to refresh myself. It is funny because I will still be thinking about how many emails I might get or how my blogs are doing.

6. Read book- old fashion way

   Something about turning the pages can be therapeutic. If there’s a way I can avoid the internet at times, I take it.