How much time do you spend online?

So much of our work requires the Internet whether it be email, blogging, or writing an offer for our client.  Have you ever tracked how many hours a day you spend online?  It can be difficult to turn off with all of the different types of  technology making Internet access so easy wherever you are. 

When I'm out running errands, so many people are on their smartphones texting, updating their status on Facebook, tweeting, checking email, or updating their location on foursquare.  It seems that communicating with someone in person is becoming more difficult nowadays.  People don't have time to talk on the phone any more and only want to be texted which I can understand with how busy life can be.

I can't count how many times I've seen people sitting at dinner in a restaurant not even talking with one another but looking at their smartphones instead.  Things have really changed and I'm not sure it's a good thing.  I'm not against technology but don't you think we can we get carried away with it? 

When was the last time you met with a client face to face over lunch or a cup of coffee?  Do you hide behind your computer screen to avoid real human interaction?  Maybe meeting someone in person or picking up the phone to catch up is too much work.

If you spend too much time online, I challenge you to spend a day doing things a little differently.  Talk to people around you when you are out and about instead of being preoccupied with your phone.  Try going outside and taking a run or a walk and getting some fresh air.  It's no surprise young kids are so overweight, they don't get outside enough and adults are no different. 

I know, I know you have SO much work to do but you still have to live life offline once in a while!  Try not getting on Facebook for a day...I know it's hard to believe but you can live without it.  Send a handwritten note to someone instead of an email for a change. 

Sometimes I feel like Social Media is taking over and making people less social and more isolated.  My broker is old school, he still meets with people and I don't think he has a Facebook fan page...sounds crazy doesn't it?! 

Take some time out of your day to look up from your computer or phone and listen to the tweets birds.