We’re more connected than ever. We often forget, but the internet in its modern form has existed for less than 30 years — a mere blip in the grand scheme of human existence — and its massive development and growth is having and will undoubtedly continue to have far-reaching ramifications that we won’t be aware of for some time.
Social media is a perfect example. It serves an important function. Interconnectedness has done a great deal of good for the world, but there’s a lot of harm. More and more it seems that children are having crises of identity. Eating disorders and adolescent suicide are on the rise.
Should there be better limitations on the use of social media before the age of 18? Is it solely the parent's responsibility?
These are difficult questions to answer, and I wrestle with these ideas on a near-daily basis. What I’ve found is that silence truly is golden. There’s genuine beauty in seeking solitude.
A few quiet moments for yourself every day can do wonders for your mental and physical health.
A short walk, a 10-minute Calm meditation practice. Reading a book on your patio. It really can be anything that you find pleasure in.
I confess that I’m not always great about this. Some days I miss the mark. But it’s become very apparent to me that on the days that I make this a true focus, I feel better.
I’m a better friend, coworker, and fiancé to my future wife. I’m more receptive to new ideas, more charitable to the guy who cut me off in traffic, and less quick to judge others.
I become the version of myself that I always hope that I could be as a kid. It’s amazing what 10 minutes of focused solitude, gratitude, and personal reflection can do.
It sets the tone.
