How I Spend My Time Online

From a young age, I have cherished reading, as stories whisk me away to enchanting realms and cultures yet to be explored. I feel a sense of joy in sharing this passion. Writing also plays a significant role in my Medium experience, accounting for about 30% of my time spent planning and creating narratives, recipes, and poetry.

Unlike mindless scrolling, I select stories carefully, engaging deeply until I reach the end or the call to action.

Why Medium Resonates With Me

a) Online Friendships When I log into Medium, it feels like entering a sanctuary filled with my favorite things, including interactions with those I’ve met through their engaging stories. Many of these connections feel like close friends, and I often find myself wanting to linger just a bit longer.

b) Therapeutic Outlet A friend once encouraged me to write, questioning why I didn’t share my storytelling passion. At that time, feeling lost and unemployed, writing became my therapy, helping me regain perspective on life.

c) The High of Engagement A significant reason I am captivated by Medium is the thrill of receiving feedback. When readers respond to my stories with claps or comments, it triggers a rush of dopamine. Each positive interaction feels like a virtual high five, fueling my desire for more.

I hope I haven’t bored you with my reflections; perhaps you can relate to this experience.

Medium’s Influence on My Life

Spending time on Medium sometimes leads me to disconnect from reality, which can be concerning. While enjoying nature on my walks, I often feel compelled to capture and share my experiences through stories or poems. I find myself viewing life through a writer’s lens, focusing on narratives rather than the beauty of the moment. It's a reminder to be present and cherish each experience.

I notice that I tend to spend more time on Medium during the winter months, likely due to my aversion to the cold and gloomy weather. In contrast, I am more social and active outdoors during other seasons, connecting with friends and enjoying long walks.

While I appreciate my time on Medium, I don’t see myself as addicted in the same way one might be to substances. I acknowledge, however, that my time on the platform can sometimes be excessive.

Escaping the Social Media Trap

I do not find myself addicted to other social media platforms, such as Facebook or Twitter, where my usage is minimal. Breaking free from any form of addiction is a challenging journey. Having quit smoking three months ago, I understand the determination required to stay committed.

The first step towards overcoming addiction is recognizing its existence and being willing to change. In the context of social media, it’s crucial to differentiate between healthy engagement and mindless scrolling, as the line can be easily crossed. Establishing boundaries for online activities is essential for maintaining a balanced digital presence.

I remind myself to set specific times for checking in, reading, and writing—after all, the virtual world can wait. It’s essential to prioritize real-life interactions with friends and family over digital distractions.

Final Thoughts

I cherish my time on Medium, engaging with the creative works of others. Many of you inspire me with your imaginative stories and poetry. I recognize that I need to monitor my online time more closely and create boundaries. This summer, I plan to focus on enjoying nature and building relationships with people in the real world.

My publication and social media links: | The Poetry Club | A Taste for Life | Easy Cookbook | Twitter | Facebook |