On a recent trip to Austin I had a sudden epiphany while on top of Mount Bonell. More often than not, individuals of today's generation have the desire to capture the moment, rather than enjoy the moment. Social media is on its peak in this decade, and it has become a societal norm to take pictures so that the world can know how exciting your life is. However, is it really as exciting as you show it to be?
Traveling to well-known places that have been on your bucket list for months (or even years) is a feeling like no other. When you finally have time off of school or work, you can go anywhere your little heart desires. In the midst of this excitement, Snapchat or Instagram will come knocking on your door to remind you not to forget about them.
What, then, does this do to your trip? You won’t be able to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. You’ll be present in a scenic location where the beautiful sun is setting right in front of your eyes, burying itself behind a mountain. But you will be so adamant on Snapchatting, Tweeting or Instagraming this moment, rather than absorbing its beauty. Your iPhone’s camera will absorb the beauty, and then you’re left with nothing but pictures. Not experiences.You want to be left with memories, not just images.
In today’s society, where social media is what this generation basically lives off of, it’s extremely difficult to rid yourself of this habit. Of course, it’s okay to inform your friends of your whereabouts, but don’t be so consumed that you forget to enjoy your vacation. Capturing the moment is an amazing technique to create memories, but creating memories requires more than just a click of a button. It requires your full and undivided attention.
When you’re on a roller coaster, scream at the top of your lungs. When you’re watching the sunset, lay down on the large grassy plains and wait for nature's beauty to consume you. When you’re at a music festival, enjoy the free vibes and positive atmosphere. When you’re in a plane looking down at the people who are now equivalent to ants, imagine how big this world is and how many opportunities it holds for you. Opportunities to explore and spread your wings across everything that you’ve ever wanted to do and become in life. This thrill of exploration will enable you to go above and beyond to halt social media from taking over your life.
There is a saying that when one is having fun, time flies. There is also a saying that when one is having fun, they forget to take pictures. Next time Snapchat pops into your head as soon as you get to your destination, remind yourself that your eyes deserve to see the world before your cellular device’s eyes.
It’s hard enough to find time to travel. Once you have this opportunity, don’t let it go! Now pack your bags, explore, and minimize the usage of your data plan!
