You're Not Addicted to Technology. Here's What's Happening Instead.

You're Not Addicted to Technology. Here's What's Happening Instead.

In a congressional hearing in 2021, U.S. representative Kathy Castor of Florida made a statement that apps are "designed to be addictive." While it is true that people tend to overuse technology, it is important to understand that this does not necessarily mean they are addicted to it. The distinction between overuse and addiction goes beyond mere semantics. It boils down to the fact that something else, something beyond our control, has gained authority over the decisions we make and the world we live in.

To delve deeper into this topic, we can turn to the work of psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, who developed the "self-determination theory" of motivation in the mid-1980s. According to their theory, there are three fundamental human needs: competency, autonomy, and relatedness. These needs are essential for us to feel happy and in control of our lives. However, many individuals, particularly students, find it challenging to fulfill these needs in their daily lives.

Students often seek autonomy, competency, and relatedness in the virtual world of video games. Within these games, they can master skills, navigate the virtual world on their own terms, and connect with their friends. The appeal of video games lies in their ability to provide a sense of achievement, independence, and social interaction that may be lacking in other areas of their lives. It is crucial to recognize that excessive technology use is not necessarily an addiction but rather a means to fulfill these innate human needs.

In our quest to understand the impact of technology on our lives, it is essential to explore tools and practices that can help us strike a balance. Glasp, for example, is a social web highlighter that allows users to highlight and collect web articles, organize them, and follow like-minded individuals to learn together. This platform encourages users to engage with online content in a mindful and intentional manner, fostering a more purposeful relationship with technology.

Additionally, incorporating simple habits into our daily routines can help us maintain a healthy relationship with technology. For instance, creating a calendar reminder at 8 pm every night asking, "What made you smile today?" and taking the time to answer this question can encourage us to reflect on positive experiences and detach from the constant stimulation of technology. This practice promotes mindfulness, gratitude, and emotional well-being, ultimately reducing the urge to excessively rely on technology for fulfillment.

Financial literacy is another aspect that plays a significant role in our relationship with technology. Denise Duffield-Thomas offers a free quiz and related business training series called "Sacred Money Archetypes" that helps individuals identify their money archetype. Understanding our financial tendencies and behaviors can empower us to make informed decisions about our finances and avoid falling into patterns of excessive technology use as a means to fulfill unmet needs.

In conclusion, it is crucial to recognize that excessive technology use is not necessarily an addiction but often a way for individuals to fulfill innate human needs. By understanding and addressing these needs, we can develop a healthier relationship with technology. To achieve this, we can integrate tools such as Glasp, adopt mindful habits like reflecting on positive experiences, and enhance our financial literacy to make informed decisions. By doing so, we can regain control over our lives and find fulfillment in a balanced and purposeful use of technology.