Can you go a day without technology? This week, our professor has challenged us to go without technology, and by challenge, I mean if you don't do it, you fail. But, what qualifies as technology? Technically, a clock, microwave, lamp, and treadmill all count as technology. At one point, people went every day without using these devices. I'm not saying people don't now, but most likely, everybody uses at least one of these four devices daily. Is it impossible to go without technology for an entire week in this time period? I'm sure it isn't impossible, but it sure would be difficult.
Our professor decided we must only give up screens, meaning no cellphone, iPod, TV, laptop, or tablet. She said she was going to collect our phones in class Tuesday, and return them to us the following Tuesday. She kept telling us we would begin to feel withdrawals, and end up admitting that we were addicted. I thought she was exaggerating. I didn't even get a cellphone until I was 18 years old, so for me, I don't think this assignment will be hard at all.
However, it's day 1, and I'm realizing there are so many more obstacles than I expected. She allows us to use our laptops for homework, but only homework. I'm not having phone withdrawals yet. However, I'm missing some daily things. I had to bike when I went to the gym instead of run. The one treadmill that wasn't facing the TVs was being used, so I had to use the other equipment. It is so weird working out without watching Netflix or listening to Beyonce. After classes, I did my homework. Since I wasn't distracted with electronics, I was done by dinner time (5:30 p.m.). Normally, I'm done around 10:30 p.m. I had no idea what I was going to do. I took my time eating and watching people at dinner. I took a nap, and played pool in the student center.
I wonder where everyone is. Do I dare go to the library across campus in the dark by myself without a phone? I wonder how my Grandpa is doing? If I write my friend from high school a letter, when will she even get it? I think I might read a book for fun.
I challenge everyone to go without screens for a week. Take a break from the world. Think about yourself, your life, goals, and plans. Do things you never thought you had time to do. Join a club, read a book, exercise, bake, and eat a meal with friends without using your phone. Instead of playing basketball on your video games, go out, and play at the gym. Without screens, you can rediscover yourself.
