As someone who spends a lot of time online, I’ve noticed a growing trend of people seeking attention and validation through social media and other digital platforms. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with wanting to be noticed, it’s important to remember that real life attention carries more weight than internet attention.

In our current society, it’s easy to get caught up in the world of likes, comments, and followers. We spend hours crafting the perfect post, editing our photos to perfection, and checking our notifications for any sign of validation. But at the end of the day, these things are fleeting and don’t hold the same weight as genuine human interaction.

It’s important to remember that the internet is just one small part of our lives, and that the relationships and connections we make in real life are ultimately more fulfilling. By prioritizing real life interactions and experiences, we can cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections with the people around us and find true happiness and fulfillment.

Why Real Life Attention Matters More

As someone who spends a lot of time online, I’ve come to realize that there’s a big difference between the attention I get on the internet and the attention I get in real life. While online attention can be validating, it’s not the same as the kind of attention we get from face-to-face interactions and physical touch. Here are a few reasons why real life attention matters more:

The Importance of Face-to-Face Interaction

When we interact with people in person, we get a lot more information than we do online. We can see their facial expressions, hear the tone of their voice, and pick up on subtle cues that we might miss in a text message or email. This kind of information helps us build stronger connections with people and understand them better.

The Power of Physical Touch

Physical touch is an important part of human connection. When we hug someone, shake their hand, or even just pat them on the back, we release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of trust and bonding. This kind of physical touch is hard to replicate online, and it’s an important part of building relationships.

Of course, this isn’t to say that online attention is worthless. It can be a great way to connect with people who are far away or to find like-minded communities. But when it comes to building strong relationships and feeling truly connected to others, real life attention is still the gold standard.

The Downside of Internet Attention

As someone who spends a lot of time online, I know firsthand the allure of internet attention. It’s easy to get caught up in the likes, comments, and followers. However, I’ve also come to realize that there is a downside to seeking validation from strangers on the internet.

The Illusion of Connection

One of the biggest downsides of internet attention is the illusion of connection. It’s easy to feel like we are part of a community when we have hundreds or thousands of followers on social media. However, this connection is often superficial and fleeting. We may feel like we are part of something bigger than ourselves, but in reality, we are just scrolling through a feed.

The Negative Effects of Social Media

Another downside of internet attention is the negative effects of social media. Studies have shown that excessive social media use can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. We may feel like we are connecting with others, but in reality, we are often comparing ourselves to others and feeling inadequate.

In addition, social media can be a breeding ground for negativity and hate. It’s easy to get caught up in online drama or to be the target of cyberbullying. This can have a serious impact on our mental health and well-being.

Overall, while internet attention may feel good in the moment, it’s important to remember that it’s not a substitute for real-life connections and validation. We should strive to build meaningful relationships and find validation in our real-life accomplishments, rather than seeking it from strangers on the internet.

Practical Tips for Prioritizing Real Life Attention

Making Time for In-Person Interactions

I find that scheduling regular in-person interactions is a great way to prioritize real life attention. Whether it’s meeting up with friends or family, attending a local community event, or joining a club or group that aligns with your interests, making time for face-to-face interactions can help you stay connected with others and build meaningful relationships.

To make this easier, I suggest using a planner or calendar app to schedule in-person activities in advance. This way, you’ll have a better idea of your availability and can plan your other commitments around these interactions.

Limiting Screen Time

Another practical tip for prioritizing real life attention is to limit your screen time. This can be challenging, especially if you rely on technology for work or other important tasks. However, setting boundaries around your screen time can help you focus on the people and activities that matter most.

One way to limit screen time is to establish designated “no-screen” zones or times. For example, you might decide to avoid using your phone or computer during meals, or to take a break from screens for an hour before bed. You can also use apps or tools to track your screen time and set limits on certain activities or apps.

Engaging in Physical Activities

Finally, engaging in physical activities is a great way to prioritize real life attention. Whether it’s going for a walk, practicing yoga, or playing a sport, physical activity can help you connect with your body and environment in a way that screens simply can’t.

To make this a regular part of your routine, consider finding a workout buddy or joining a fitness class. You can also set goals for yourself, such as running a 5K or completing a certain number of push-ups each day.

Overall, prioritizing real life attention requires intention and effort. By making time for in-person interactions, limiting screen time, and engaging in physical activities, you can cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I believe that making real life attention weigh more than internet attention is crucial for maintaining genuine human connections. While the internet has made it easier to connect with people from all over the world, it has also created a culture of seeking validation through likes and followers.

To combat this, I suggest that we prioritize spending time with loved ones in person, rather than solely communicating through social media. This can include activities such as going out for a meal, attending a concert, or simply having a conversation over coffee.

Of course, the internet will continue to play a significant role in our lives, but it’s important to remember that it should not be the sole source of validation and connection. By making real life attention weigh more than internet attention, we can cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships and live more fulfilling lives.