Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping us Hooked

I have been totally MIA from social media for a couple weeks, and I blame this book! It's totally addicting in its own right, and very enlightening. Want to put a spotlight on your phone/tech/internet use? I recommend this book. Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping us Hooked, by Adam Alter.

At this point in our culture, there's no avoiding technology. And why would you? There are so many ways it benefits us, and makes our lives easier. But the reality is that our physiology is susceptible to getting hooked as we advance further and further with tech. From dopamine hits, to the stimulation of blue light, to the sense of long distance social connection- it's designed for us to want more.

I'm not anti-tech, I swear! (I'm here, aren't I? :p ) But as with most everything in life, I believe in moderation. Here are some friendly reminders, to keep your tech in check:

- Consciously use your tech (take note of when you're mindlessly checking email, or scrolling social media)

- Listen to your body - check in with how you feel physically rather than relying too heavily on the number of steps you took, your minimum miles to hit, or the hours of quality sleep recorded

- Bored? Or do you have a spare moment between obligations? Rather than filling that space by aimlessly scrolling out of habit, take that time to take a few breaths, take in your surroundings, reflect on your day, or think about all of the things you're grateful for!