The Problem with our Generation
I know I know, harsh title. I love this generation. I think our generation really focuses on self care more than previous and we even have a good community with each other. However, it has become evident to me lately that with this generation comes the issue of not only being addicted to technology, but also the instant gratification that comes with it.
Instant gratification is defined as the immediate urge to satisfy ones needs or desires.
With social media and the growth of short form content, our generation has gotten used to instant gratification while lowering their attention span. Because of this, people don’t want to work as hard, especially when that means putting in work that won’t pay off for a long time. For example, people are less likely to work out and stick with it because they don’t see muscle growth right away. Our generation is even the least likely to go to college because it means you have to put in work for at least four years in order to get the gratification of a degree as opposed to getting it right away.
Be Different
Just because you were born into a generation of technology and instant gratification doesn’t mean you have to be addicted to it too. Now don’t get me wrong, I do think it is important to allow yourself to indulge in rest with technology, but I do think it is important to do so in moderation. Because of that, I’ve learned some things that help combat the desire to constantly be surrounded by technology and things that give me instant gratification.
Set timers on your social media apps
If you didn’t already know, you can set timers on your apps based on how long you want to spend on them. For example, you can set a timer in your phone settings that you can only be on instagram for 30 minutes a day. This can be hard because you can put the password and override it yourself, but find an accountability partner and have them set the password so you can’t override it!
Find technology free things that make you happy
Finding new hobbies that don’t have to do with technology has so many benefits because a lot of them don’t give you instant gratification like technology does, but instead you truly have to continue with them so see progress, like the gym, reading, or painting.
Identify your trigger for wanting to scroll on your phone
If you want to stop something, it is important to be able to recognize why you are wanting to do it in the first place. Are you wanting to mindlessly scroll because you are bored? Find a new hobby to fill your time. Are you trying to distract yourself from your feelings? Try journaling!
Reduce your notifications
I have had my social media notifications off for years and I can truly say it helps me to stay off my phone. If you are trying to focus but your phone is constantly going off with notifications, it’s no wonder you can’t stay off of it. Do yourself a favor and turn off your notifications.
Put your phone away in the mornings
There is research to prove that the first thing that gives you dopamine in the day is what your brain is constantly craving throughout the day. If you reach for your phone first thing in the morning, your brain will be craving that and making you reach for it all day. Try reaching for a word search or book first instead!
