How Are Smartphones & Technology Affecting Our Relationships?

It can be hard to argue that the rapid adoption of smartphones and other technology has negatively impacted our lives. The ability to access the Internet from anywhere has fundamentally changed our lives, allowing for modern conveniences like GPS navigation, improved email communications, and social media websites. 

Modern Technology & The Maldives 

Many of these developments are great, but it can be hard to ignore the impact that social media is having on our relationships. For many of us, the way we form connections is changing, from how we meet friends and neighbors to how we pursue romance. 

I, like most of us grew up in a small close-knit community where it seems as if everyone knows everyone. I often wondered  how technology is affecting our communities. Does the Internet facilitate or hinder the development of authentic connections? Is it beneficial for our community, or does it drive division with negative trends like fake news and internet gossip?

What does Technology do to our Relationships

Around the world, experts agree that technology is negatively impacting our relationships with each other. For example, several studies have proven that simply having a phone present during a conversation can affect the sense of connection between two people. 

This makes sense, as we have all experienced the awkwardness that comes with trying to talk to someone while they are absentmindedly staring at their smartphone. In a way, this is very ironic, as technology such as social media helps us share our casual friendships in today’s world. 

On the other hand, using technology instead of interacting with those around us can make our relationships feel cold and distant. This is especially true during meaningful conversations when staring at a screen can rob us of a real, authentic connection with another person, which is the core aspect of any meaningful relationship

The Changing Concept Of Connection

Smartphones, social media, and other technology-based inventions are changing our concept of connection. Our connections have shifted from meaningful relationships with close family, friends, and loved ones to seek the approval of hundreds of so-called “friends” through social media platforms like Facebook. Needless to say, this is a negative trend that hurts everyone involved. Thankfully, there is a promising solution that could help us restore our feeling of genuine connection with each other.

Digital Detox: How To Reconnect With People

Digital detoxing, which is the practice of putting away electronic devices for a period of time, can be a great way to reduce anxiety and reconnect with those around us. In fact, a digital detox is one of the most effective ways to heal the real-world relationships that technology has damaged. 

Starting a digital detox can be difficult, but I promise that it is worth it. You’d be amazed at how quickly people truly reconnect with each other once their smartphones are put aside. 

As we know, the culture of the Maldives has always been one based on the foundation of close, personal connections. In a world full of alluring technology, it is more important than ever to take time to reconnect with those around us.