Years ago, people were more vigilant and creative than machines—and they always will be. The world we live in today is not the same as yesterday; a lot has changed. The poor village boy who once worked on the family farm can now finish his computer science degree online at night. The results that used to take months are now available in seconds with the help of technology and media.
With this abundance of cheap information and labor, the world is more connected than ever before. But are these technological changes entirely good? Is it okay to have an overwhelming amount of information at our fingertips? Should we question our free subscriptions on digital platforms? Can we truly be happy with our cell phones far away from us? Maybe our cell phones have become our own prisons?
Let’s break this down into smaller pieces to understand what it means to be someone who educates, entertains, and, at times, destructs themselves online. These three aspects shape our productivity, creativity, thinking ability, and the kind of people we become at home and at work. But ask yourself—what would happen if every device went offline for a week? Our world would be in chaos, disputes would arise, and life would feel unfamiliar. Why? Because we have caged ourselves within our phones, devices, forums, jobs, and mobile apps. Can you truly be yourself without a device?
Research shows that technology can be a powerful tool if used for education. There is a vast amount of information, opportunities, and jobs available—not just in developed countries but also in third-world and developing nations.
Education: Learn More, Entertain Less
1. Be specific about your online goals. Do you need a job? A course? Define what you want, break your goals into smaller steps, and set a clear direction with deadlines.
2. Create a dedicated workspace. Whether it’s an office, a study room, or your bedroom, having a set place for learning will boost your productivity. If possible, form study groups—face-to-face discussions are more effective for deep learning and growth.
3. Be patient and take breaks. Don't rush or force things. Learn at your own pace, refresh yourself, and return to work with a clear mind. Read more, listen more, write more, talk less, and research deeply—you can learn anything online.
4. Invest in your learning. If you don’t have access to a device for remote work, consider saving money through side jobs like waiting tables, then invest in a laptop and a stable internet connection. Online education is often free, but certifications are not—don’t assume that just because something is accessible, it shouldn’t be paid for.
Entertainment: Enjoy, But With Limits
How sweet it feels to open a new tab and dive into entertainment! You can listen, read, and watch your favorite artists online. But if done excessively, entertainment can become a silent productivity killer.
1. Enjoy entertainment during breaks and leisure time. Don’t mix work and entertainment—balance is key.
2. Set limits on phone usage before and during work. Discipline yourself to focus when needed.
3. Be mindful that entertainment is the biggest dream destructor in this information age. Overconsumption can drain your time and energy, leaving you unproductive.
Destruction: Protect Yourself Online
Not everything online is real—or fake. People can take information, twist it, and present it on their own terms. Everyone seems to have a podcast or platform telling you how to live your life. To avoid falling into the trap of self-destruction, follow these safety tips:
1. Set and maintain your privacy. True privacy doesn’t exist—not on the surface web, deep web, or dark web. Be mindful of what you share.
2. Protect your digital footprint. Be careful about what you post, how you live online, and how you interact with content. Privacy alone isn’t enough; you need strong protection.
3. Be kind, humble, and curious. Online spaces can be harsh. Your phone can be hacked, and losing control of your personal data can be disastrous.
Conclusion: Mastering the Three Pillars
Remember these three pillars of online life—education, entertainment, and destruction. If you can master them, you can reverse your direction and aim for greatness. Be careful. In today’s world, information is everywhere, but not all of it leads to wisdom.
