disconnected
posted on march 05, 2026
In our time, it now seems impossible to be able to disconnect from the Internet. The Internet is everywhere around us, very convenient to quickly search for information for example but also synonymous that we are constantly reachable.
Around me, surely reflecting a majority, when someone does not respond quickly, and takes several days to respond: it's unacceptable. When you think about it, it’s totally crazy. According to them: we should be reachable constantly, and always respond as quickly as possible. We are alienated by communication, speed and the ease of having everything we want.
Before smartphones, most online communications took place via a computer, through messaging software where all its social circle was centralized. It was often the only way to chat with friends, calls and messages not being unlimited on phone plans. It was possible to update his status between "Online", "AFK" and "Do not disturb", which was the rule for everyone. The shutdown of the computer allowed for a real break with this virtual world.
Nowadays, Discord also offers the update of its status but the era in which we live is different. It’s not the only means of communication, we can go through social networks, by phone directly. The status is no longer a law.
But now, like the computer where there is necessarily a physical break, we almost always have our smartphone in our pocket or very close, preventing us from truly disconnecting. Where the pressure to receive a message, to have to respond to it is constant. I find it anxiogenic, mentally tiring to have to resist having to hold a conversation, in a way, out of social obligation.
Our life is not just about being there to respond to others, let alone spend it on the Internet.