Paint a picture: you are out to eat with three of your closest friends, you just ordered a bacon cheeseburger and your friends are all discussing something that happened at work yesterday, they are laughing, there is good music playing in the restaurant you are in, something smells delicious, and you are glaring at your phone slurping a diet Coke.
My dear friends, get off the internet and go do something better, something more worthwhile. If you aren't convinced, here are some other reasons why you need to get off the internet, now:
1. There is something beautiful going on outside
Let it be the sunshine beaming down, rain plummeting from the sky, or snow descending, go out and enjoy. Tomorrow it might not be as beautiful as it is today. Go enjoy an excuse for some fresh air.
2. There is someone who would love to receive a phone call from you
Whether it be Grandma, your sister or your friend from high school, there is someone that would love to be talking to you right now. Who knows, maybe you might make their day!
3. Odds are you're hungry, so go make some delicious food
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need the internet to cook. Go throw some things together— cheese probably tastes good with everything, chocolate is always a good idea.. Cooking is such a great skill and the only way you learn is by trying, learning, and failing.
4. You could/should definitely be cleaning something
Bathroom, bedroom, under your bed... you are probably thinking of someplace right now. Go get after it, cleaning is such a satisfying feeling.
5. Some book, somewhere, is calling your name
Oh what, you are not a reader? Maybe you just haven't found the right book. Pick up a couple, try a few, reading is relaxing, informative, and an awesome way to escape reality. God knows we all need that every once in awhile.
6. Go spend time with someone you care about
Remember that time is limited. The more time you spend surfing the internet, the less time you have for more important things, things that really matter. Instead of learning about your friend's new promotion via Facebook, schedule a lunch date, converse, have fun.
7. If you have the energy to scroll through Instagram for twenty minutes, you can definitely go work out
As much as I hate to admit it, working out is great for your body and mind. The internet, however, is not. Get a few push-ups in, maybe even some crunches. Sore muscles are the best kind!
8. Take a nap and give your body some well-deserved rest
I am guilty of utilizing the internet before I go to bed, but you won't be so tired tomorrow if you just put down your phone, shut your eyes and fall asleep. The faster you get off the internet, the faster that will happen.
9. There is something great going on right behind your phone
Try looking up. Whether they be people, things or animals, put down the phone and enjoy where you are. There is a quote that I like that goes, "wherever you are, be there."
The internet is a great tool, and it has advanced our society more than most of us can comprehend. However, we should not let the internet dictate our lives. Get off your phone, get off the internet and be present where ever you are, you won't get this opportunity again.
