How to Find Inner Balance
in a Hyper-Connected World

Technology is a rather new ingredient in many seniors’ lives.  Some of us have learned to adapt, at least to some degree.  Others of us continue to struggle with technology.  Regardless, it seems to be here to stay.  So the question becomes, how are we to deal with it?

The modern world is always on. From phones that never stop ringing to email inboxes flooded with messages, it’s hard to find peace. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, tired, and trying to keep up. Fortunately, there is a better way to find balance in your life.

How to Coexist with Technology

1. Focus on creating a healthy relationship with technology. Between work, family, and friends, you may be online frequently. Your job may require you to use email, or your kids may text you updates. How do you find a balance amid the technology? 

• Craft a relationship that is based on intent. Mindless surfing online can waste your time, so ensure you have a definite purpose when you use technology. All of your online actions need a reason

2. Live with technology instead of for it. Technology and being connected doesn’t have to absorb your entire life.

• Keep in mind that technology is a tool.  Only a tool.  Avoid making it the focus of your day or life. 

3. Disconnect on a frequent basis. It’s crucial to take breaks from always being connected to everyone through your phone, email, and social media. 

• Take a tech break each week. Experts recommend setting aside the weekends for spending time with family and friends. Avoid surfing online, sending text messages, or uploading photos. Instead, interact with real people in the real world. 

• It’s important to warn your connections ahead of time so you don’t cause concern when you suddenly “disappear.” They’ll get used to you taking weekends and vacations away from technology. 

4. Manage your connections. Do you really need to keep up with every person from your old school days? How many times do you need to check your social media accounts for new messages?

• It’s important to find a balance between keeping up to date with your connections and always being available. Of course, you want to stay in touch, but it doesn’t have to be an hourly issue.

• Try limiting the number of connections in your life to those that are important to you.

• Although it may hurt some feelings, consider “unfollowing” some people on social media, so you don’t have to be part of their drama anymore. Do what you can to maintain a stress-free social circle.

5. Partake in activities that reduce stress. A hyper-connected world can make you feel on edge. It can increase stress and anxiety. It can also make you feel that you always have to be available to do everything.

• Schedule some time alone each day. The solitude will give you a chance to reflect, plan, de-stress, and re-energize. Try yoga, meditation, journaling, or keeping a diary.

• Pursue activities that make you feel peaceful and calm. Whether you hike in a park or dance in your living room, relax and disconnect from the world for a moment. 

You can discover inner balance despite living in a hyper-connected world. Make these strategies daily habits and enjoy greater peace.  It is possible to make your peace with technology and have control over it rather than let technology have control over you.

Please share your thoughts and any response you may have in the form below.

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