In today's world, we as humans have advanced as a species through technology. Within a couple decades, we have made it possible to communicate with anyone around the globe in seconds. My generation is the first to grow up with the Internet right at our fingertips. With it can come great advantages, but it can also bring a few setbacks.

Sure we can rocket to Mars or FaceTime a friend traveling across the world, but we have forgotten how to communicate face-to-face. We're so used to hiding behind a phone, tablet, or computer screen that we've forgotten how to socialize. We use technology as a crutch - a drug that we're dependent on. It seems hypocritical because I'm currently typing this article on a computer, but it's true. Sometimes I found myself staring at my phone almost 24/7. I couldn't imagine how much time I've spent checking social media or watching Netflix instead of enjoying life without technology.

Going back to forgetting how to communicate, distorted forms of talking such as texting can cause things to have multiple meaning. Not being able to see someone's facial expressions or hear their voice can cause misunderstanding. When we're out in public and feeling awkward, we hide behind our phones pretending to be busy when it's the total opposite. People on the Internet believe that they say whatever they want and it won't affect anyone.

Our lives are made public. This is done through Facebook posts, tweets, Instagram photos, and Snapchat stories. Your business becomes my business whether you like it or not. This can lead to stalking or identity theft. Nothing is personal, even if our profiles are made "private". We have become so preoccupied with social media that we don't know the difference between fantasy and reality. What we post is only a highlight reel of our lives.

I don't despise technology because we have made significant strides, but I think that it's okay to take a break from handheld devices every once in a while. Maybe I'm old fashioned, but most events happen off-screen. It helps clear the mind and helps you become more aware of what's going on around you. Who knows what could be happening that you're missing out on to scroll through your phone. Something amazing could occur, or it could just stay the same.

Enjoy life as it is. You don't have to take a picture or a video of everything. Do things like spend time with friends, sit and watch a sunset, attend a concert or event without lifting your phone. To me, our eyes make better cameras than artificial lenses. The memories can be richer. You will be able to savor the moment longer.

You need to look up, not down. You don't know what's in front of you until you look up.