Updated: June 28, 2019
Originally Published: Oct. 4, 2016
I have a love-hate relationship with my smartphone. On one hand, it’s my trusty sidekick that provides answers to any questions I have, captures memories of my kids, and keeps me connected to friends and family no matter where I am. On the flip side, I can’t stand how it has made me dependent, leaving me mindlessly scrolling instead of enjoying the moment. I despise how quickly I can go from playing with my kids to being glued to the screen, checking social media as if it’s more important than the giggles and splashes happening right in front of me.
This struggle is something I know many of us face. I see it everywhere—playgrounds, grocery stores, even during family gatherings. While most of us feel a nagging sense that real-life interactions matter more than tapping away at our phones, some have completely surrendered to the siren call of the screen, becoming what I can only describe as “smartphone zombies.”
A few weeks ago, my daughter turned 5, and she insisted on a simple celebration: just some pool time and a Hello Kitty cake. So, we packed up and rushed to a hotel before she could change her mind, and I felt overwhelmed with relief at not having to plan a big party. But as I settled by the pool, I realized I had left my phone in the room. At first, I felt a pang of anxiety, but I told myself I’d get pictures later.
As I sat there, watching my kids play, I noticed something that sent shivers down my spine. Every single parent around me was fixated on their phones, even those lounging in the hot tub. It struck me that had I not forgotten my phone, I would’ve been just another zombie in that crowd. I’ve always defended my phone use; after all, it’s my work and a way to take a breather from parenting. But the scene was alarming—parents completely zoned out, missing the joy of their children playing.
My kids, blissfully unaware, were just happy to have my attention. “Again, Mom! Throw the ball again!” they shouted. They’ve seen me check out before, sometimes even more interested in my screen than in them. I’m sharing this not to shame anyone but to awaken myself. I refuse to be a smartphone zombie any longer.
Maybe we should all consider leaving our phones behind occasionally. Remember cameras? We used to navigate without instantly Googling directions. Online chats can wait, and so can that addictive game. But our kids? They’re growing up fast, and soon they won’t want to play with us or ask us to witness their endless tricks.
Since that day at the pool, I’ve made it a point to leave my phone behind during outings—at parks, soccer games, and even restaurants. Admittedly, it hasn’t magically transformed my life into a fairy tale. Kids still squabble, we get irritable, and I find myself reaching for that glowing distraction. Yet, I’m experiencing more of real life, and it feels good.
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Summary:
The author reflects on the challenges of smartphone dependency, sharing a personal anecdote about a family outing that highlights the distractions technology can create. She encourages readers to unplug occasionally, emphasizing the importance of being present with loved ones, especially children who are growing up too fast.