Lately, I’ve been feeling a shift—one I didn’t expect. As someone who has always thrived on human connection, I now find myself spending most of my time behind a screen. Teaching online, running a business, and handling life’s daily tasks have all become digital.

And while I love the flexibility that technology provides, there’s something missing—something I didn’t fully realize until I found myself longing for face-to-face interactions, spontaneous conversations, and the energy of real human presence.

I’ve noticed something else, too. The more I work on my devices, the less connected I feel—not just to other people, but to myself.

The Transactional Trap: Have We Forgotten How to Connect?

We live in a world where convenience is king. With a few taps, we can order food, book appointments, and even have entire conversations without speaking a single word. But here’s the catch: most of our interactions today are purely transactional.

Think about it—how often do we engage with others beyond just getting what we need? A quick email, a short chat message, a rushed video call—it’s all efficient, but it lacks depth.

Even social media, designed to “connect” us, has turned into a highlight reel rather than a space for real, meaningful engagement. We scroll, we like, we comment—but do we actually feel connected?

The more we rely on technology for communication, the more uncomfortable real-life interactions can feel. I’ve caught myself hesitating before making a phone call instead of texting. I’ve seen people (myself included) awkwardly avoid eye contact in public spaces, buried in our phones. It’s as if we’ve forgotten how to just “be” with one another.

Technology: A Double-Edged Sword

Now, don’t get me wrong—technology is an incredible tool. It’s given us freedom, flexibility, and access to opportunities we never had before. I can work from anywhere in the world, connect with people across time zones, and build something meaningful online.

But it has also brought a new kind of stress—one that comes from being constantly plugged in, constantly available, and bombarded with choices at every turn.

I’ve found myself feeling anxious about having too many options—what to watch, what to read, what to listen to, what task to tackle next. It’s like decision fatigue on steroids. And sometimes, I miss the simplicity of life before all this—when boredom sparked creativity instead of another scroll session.

My Intentional Tech Reset

Realizing this, I decided to take back control. Instead of letting my devices dictate my time, I started using them intentionally. Here’s what’s been helping me reconnect with myself and the world around me:

✅ Setting Social Media Limits – No more mindless scrolling when I’m overwhelmed. Instead, I use that time to check in with how I’m actually feeling.

✅ Reading One Book a Month – Instead of consuming bite-sized content, I’m diving into stories and ideas that make me think critically and spark my imagination.

✅ Creating a Daily Focus List – Having a clear plan keeps me from feeling scattered and reactive.

✅ Quiet Time Every Day – Whether it’s meditation, journaling, or just sitting in silence, this has helped me regain perspective and clarity.

✅ Engaging in Real-Life Conversations – Making an effort to talk to people in person, whether it's a casual chat with a stranger or deep conversations with friends.

✅ Taking Notes from Thai Culture – Living in Thailand has shown me that life is about more than work. There’s a rhythm of presence and appreciation here that I admire and want to incorporate into my own life.

The Digital Detox Challenge: Are You In?

I know I’m not alone in this. So many of us feel drained, disconnected, and overstimulated—but we don’t know how to break the cycle.

That’s why I’m inviting you to join me in a Digital Detox Challenge—a chance to step back, reset, and reclaim your time, focus, and peace of mind.

This challenge isn’t about ditching technology altogether (we’re not moving to the woods just yet). It’s about using it in a way that serves us, rather than controls us.

🔹 Imagine waking up and feeling refreshed, instead of reaching for your phone first thing.
🔹 Imagine being fully present with people, rather than distracted by notifications.
🔹 Imagine creating, thinking, and feeling inspired again—without the constant noise.

Sounds good, right? Let’s make it happen.

Here’s How to Join:

💡 Comment "I’M IN" below if you’re ready to reset!
💡 Follow along as I share tips, challenges, and insights over the next few weeks.
💡 Let’s support each other in creating a more balanced, connected life.

It’s time to stop reacting to technology and start using it on our own terms.

Are you with me? Drop a "YES" below and let’s do this! 🚀

#DigitalDetox #ReclaimYourTime #MindfulTech #IntentionalLiving #DisconnectToReconnect