Just a short while ago in history, my grandparents gathered around the radio in the evening for the only outside source of piped in entertainment.
Then came my folks (now 79 and 83) who were introduced to television. I remember when cartoons were only on Saturday morning- and shows like the Wizard of Oz and Rudolf the rednosed reindeer were only available to see once a year, and therefore were literally magic.
Now we are inundated 24/7 with so much media, we don't even notice when all of our family members are on their laptops, listening to their ipods, texting, all while the TV is creating white noise nobody is even paying attention to.
Are we connected, or dis-connected?
We need to make an intentional, conserted effort to hang out with our family and friends FACE TO FACE.
Walking, eating, laughing, working, playing, eyeball to eyeball.
As much as I enjoy Facebook, ActiveRain, and cruising the internet, I must prioritize my time and my life so it has it's proper place.
Here are some things I do that might be helpful
- Set the table and eat dinner together, agreeing to turn of the tech world
- Play a game!
- Work first, then play on the computer
- Set limits
- Set an example for your kids
- Write personal notes to friends and clients
- Don't for get to EXCERSIZE!
- Reading for real ( a book- not online)
- Put away the laptops when you have company- it's RUDE!
Used appropriatly, the internetgreatly enriches our lives and business. But it cannot take the place of the Human Touch and real relationships, heartfelt conversations, or the simplicity unplugged friendship. Keep your blogging, e-life and virtual relationships in balance- making sure you are not neglecting those people and things nearest and dearest to you.
BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- Coldwell Banker Tomlinson South Inc.
509-362-4607
...there's no place like your home!
bethAnn,
Good article. I live on the Internet for business but there has to be time for the family.
Hi BethAnn,
Great reminder to keep things in perspective...although I must admit I love being connected to my kids with an iphone for text messages and stuff that's important to them!
Thanks Ted :)
Lisa, I went to Estes Park once. BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY!
Put away the cell phones when you have company, too, and don't be afraid to ask your visitors to turn their cell phones off so that everyone can enjoy each other's company.
I love all your suggestions!