Tech Fatigue: Is Society Switching Off?

A while back I wrote about my very short digital detox. Well this week I found myself doom scrolling after learning about digital detox retreats.

Remember the days when shiny new gadgets sparked excitement, and every notification seemed like a world of possibility? Those days might be fading. A subtle shift is brewing, whispering of a society "over" technology. It's not about abandoning progress; it's a growing awareness of the downsides and a yearning for a more balanced relationship.

From Trust to Trepidation:

The initial trust in technology, its promise to connect and empower, has been shaken. Data breaches, misinformation campaigns, and the manipulation of algorithms have eroded faith. Concerns about privacy, mental health, and the erosion of real-world connections are fueling a healthy skepticism.

The Cost of Convenience:

The convenience technology offers comes at a cost. Instant gratification replaces delayed satisfaction, weakening patience and focus. The curated online world distorts reality, fostering feelings of inadequacy and social comparison. The constant "on" culture leaves us drained, yearning for deeper, unfiltered interactions.

Many of us are also struggling with balancing a increasingly expensive portfolio or apps and streaming services. Not to mention life in a post Covid world causing what has been labeled as “Zoom fatigue”. This Tourwriter blog provides some great tips on how to manage technology fatigue in the workplace.

Signs of a Shift:

This weariness is manifesting in various ways. "Digital detox" retreats are booming in some parts of the world, offering escapes from the constant connectivity. "Slow tech" movements are advocating for mindful technology use, prioritising human connection over instant gratification and reducing our reliance on social media. The rise of board game cafes and co-working spaces highlights a desire for authentic, face-to-face interactions for instance.

Is it a Farewell or a Reset?

I don’t think this is a call to abandon technology entirely, it's more a call for a conscious reevaluation, recognising the need for boundaries, for prioritising real-world connections. It’s also a reminder you’re in control, focus on using technology as a tool, not a master. It is a call for a healthier, more balanced relationship with the digital world, one that empowers, enriches, and complements, rather than dominates, our lives.

What are your thoughts? Do you see signs of society growing "over" technology?

Footnote: this blog was written with the editorial help of Google Gemini which rewrote some sentences to improve the messaging.