While most of us still grew up with no cellphone at all, let alone a smartphone, many of us can hardly remember what life was like before, without them. Kelly Filush resisted getting one until she was in her 30s, when she finally gave in to the draw. Her life took quite the turn when she finally had her first smartphone in her hands. Little did she know that this technological advancement would lead to unexpected consequences that would forever change the way she lived.
The Various Ways Getting a Smartphone Changed Her Life
As most, Kelly started out with good intentions. She would use her phone, but she wouldn’t become attached to it. Initially, the smartphone seemed like a convenient tool for staying connected and organized. However, as time passed, Kelly found herself increasingly drawn into the digital world, losing touch with the present moment and real-life interactions. The constant notifications, social media pressure, and addictive nature of the device consumed her days, leaving her feeling overwhelmed and isolated.
“Within the first week of having an iPhone, I was averaging four to five hours on it daily. I was almost hit by cars when walking because I was glued to my phone screen,” she recalled. “My screen-time and usage report also showed that I was picking my phone up an average of 57 times a day. With my old phone, I’d be surprised if I used it for 30 minutes or checked it more than a handful of times in a day. “
Things She Misses About Having a ‘Dumb Phone’
Reflecting on her life before the smartphone, Kelly longs for the simplicity and peace of mind she once had. She misses the freedom from constant distractions, the joy of face-to-face conversations, and the ability to be fully present in the moment without the intrusive presence of a screen. She found that even when she was with other people, she was now reaching into her pocket for her phone. She was scrolling instead of interacting with the people right there in front of her, no longer really listening. When she got together with her friends, she found that they had fewer and fewer things to talk about. They were, afterall, connected 24/7, so there was no longer any ‘new’ news. Though she was more connected than ever before, Kelly said she had never felt so disconnected.
Positive Things About Having a Smartphone and Why She Knows She Can’t Go Back
Despite the negative impact on her life, Kelly acknowledges the positive aspects of having a smartphone. She recognizes the convenience, efficiency, and connectivity it provides. Furthermore, she understands that in today’s fast-paced world, going back to a “dumb phone” may not be a viable option for her.
“Life was simpler with my flip phone, but having a smartphone isn’t all bad,” she explained in Business Insider. “I can fire up Google Maps to get around instead of stopping at a gas station to ask the clerk for directions. Spotify helped introduce me to some of my favorite artists. And yes, I do need all 200 photos of my cat backed up to the Cloud. Yet I still find myself yearning for simpler times — when I communicated with words instead of emojis, when I wasn’t reaching into my pocket every 15 minutes looking for another cheap dopamine hit, and when I could fully immerse myself in the world around me.“
All About Smartphone Addiction
Smartphone addiction has become a widespread concern in modern society, as people increasingly rely on their devices for communication, entertainment, and productivity. This dependence on smartphones can lead to a range of negative consequences, including social isolation, anxiety, and decreased productivity. Many individuals find themselves constantly checking their phones, even in situations that require their full attention, such as during work meetings or family gatherings. This constant need to stay connected and engage with digital content can disrupt personal relationships and hinder the ability to be fully present in the moment.
The addictive nature of smartphones is often attributed to the constant stream of notifications, the allure of social media platforms, and the accessibility of entertainment options such as games and streaming services. The convenience and utility of smartphones can make it difficult for individuals to disengage and establish healthy boundaries with their devices. As a result, smartphone addiction can have a profound impact on mental health and overall well-being, prompting a need for individuals to consciously manage their smartphone usage and seek support if they find themselves struggling to break free from its grip. Kelly’s experience serves as a reminder of the dangers of excessive smartphone use and the importance of setting boundaries.
How to Reduce Your Dependence on Your Smartphone
For those struggling with smartphone addiction, there are steps that can be taken to regain control. Overcoming smartphone addiction requires a combination of self-awareness, discipline, and setting boundaries to regain control over one’s usage habits. One effective strategy is to establish designated screen-free times and spaces, such as during meals, before bedtime, or during face-to-face interactions with others. Setting limits on screen time and actively monitoring usage through apps or features that track screen time can also help individuals become more mindful of their smartphone habits. Engaging in offline activities, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, can provide a much-needed break from constant screen exposure and help reduce the impulse to reach for the phone. Seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals can also be beneficial for individuals struggling to manage their smartphone usage and break free from the cycle of addiction. By taking proactive steps to address smartphone addiction and prioritize real-life connections and experiences, individuals can gradually regain a healthier and more balanced relationship with their devices.
The Bottom Line
In a world dominated by technology, Kelly’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of excessive smartphone use. While smartphones offer numerous benefits, it is essential to be mindful of their impact on our lives and take proactive steps to maintain a healthy relationship with technology.
Read More: The Terrifying Side Of Kids Addicted To Technology