Where Will This Lead?
It’s been said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step — so watch your step.
Many people have found themselves at the end of a road they never imagined or planned to be at — but they got there gradually, sometimes imperceptibly, but always one step at a time.
Lots of the negative outcomes of digital dependence — anxiety, loneliness, social disorders — do not happen suddenly.
An hour of social media isn’t likely to cause any observable harm or difference, neither will an hour of gaming or streaming.
This is why it can be difficult to detect danger and easy for us to justify the technology we ourselves are using or allowing our children to access.
That’s why this one question can be very helpful — even life saving.
“Where will this lead?”
Of course we cannot forecast the future with detailed accuracy — life is complex and there are a lot of variables and factors that determine the outcomes of life.
However, what we do have is data, history, and the anecdotal evidence we all observe with our own senses.
And when I rely on these sources I find that unrestricted, unlimited and unmonitored use of screens, streaming, gaming and especially social media, lead myself, those I love, and many others down roads with unhappy destinations.
This is why I have been trying to scale back my own digital use — especially social media in all its forms. It’s why I’ve started DADS™. Most importantly I want healthy and happy outcomes for my children.
From my home,
Matthew
Founder, DADS™— Dads Against Devices™
Our pledge.
I will not provide my children with a smartphone or social media access until they become adults. Nor will I allow unlimited, unrestricted or unmonitored access to the internet, streaming services, gaming, or screens in our home. Instead, I will lead my family — by example and instruction — to be present, build relationships, strengthen the body, and nurture the attributes of love, communication, empathy, kindness, gratitude, humility, forgiveness, critical thinking, imagination, discipline, patience, integrity, resilience, courage, wisdom, and faith.