It feels ironic to write an article with a title like this, considering I’m a Digital Marketer. My work revolves around establishing businesses online and managing their digital presence. As you might have guessed, being offline can impact various aspects of my job. However, I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to disconnect from the internet occasionally, to engage in introspection and spend quality time with friends in the physical world.

In pondering the reasons behind the increasing mental exhaustion linked to the internet, my friends and I reminisce about the past five years. In the past, I could effortlessly converse with over 20 people on WhatsApp, make calls, and send traditional texts while effectively communicating. If your thumb muscles are getting stronger than your biceps, it might be time for a screen-time intervention. Nowadays, maintaining a 20-minute chat on WhatsApp is a challenge due to my dwindling attention span. To those awaiting replies that I may never send due to my fatigue, I offer my sincere apologies. Amidst the constant influx of new information, we allocate less time to digesting the content we consume.

A respite is much needed. We’re all in the same boat. When was the last time you enjoyed a sunset without the compulsion to photograph or share it online? How often do you converse with your friends compared to your interactions with online acquaintances? I long for spontaneous conversations and genuine high-fives instead of relying on emojis. I miss the heartfelt embrace from friends following good news, a gesture more significant than a virtual hug.

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is real, but I swear it’s not as bad as the fear of not remembering what a real, human conversation feels like. Don’t misconstrue me; I value the ability to stay in touch with exchange friends or reconnect with primary school classmates. However, I yearn for physical touch, personal emotional responses, and undivided attention. Perhaps it’s a part of growing up, but I find myself allocating less time to what truly matters to me—less time with family, friends, and personal growth—due to the constant motion of work and life. It’s a vicious cycle imposed by the modern world.

I now recognize my desire for authentic, profound connections, which proves challenging to uphold online. It’s imperative to set aside time for physical encounters with friends or even oneself—to engage with the tangible world and real individuals, as that is where our existence truly resides. An invisible divide is forming within us and among us. Taking a break from your phone or the internet is crucial for maintaining your mental equilibrium. I assure you, it makes a significant difference.

Human beings weren’t designed to exist in isolation. Let’s make an effort to forge connections beyond the digital realm. Remember, the digital world will always be there to greet you with open Wi-Fi arms, but the real world can offer some pretty epic high-fives. Let’s connect offline, where it truly counts.

Her Nexx Chapter invites you to join our free Community where women from around the world are connecting with each other’s stories, exploring different experiences, and transforming ideas.

The Future of Connection for Women