Recently my wireless internet went down at my studio, and I was frantic to get online. I visited libraries, coffee shops, malls, you name it, I was there accessing internet. But after a week, I realized I needed to step away from my laptop and try something new. My routine was always basic: get home from work, and go online. I would check email, chat with friends, read some articles and just be connected. Without that constant stream of information, I was at a standstill.

Then I realized how I could actually use my time more efficiently. Those books that I have always wanted to read can actually be read. I can write articles without constantly having to check my email or chat. I did more yoga. And, I went outside more.

Today’s society is trapped inside a cubicle, a studio, a computer, an apartment, a mall. We do not know our neighbors, we shop online, we email instead of meet up. We are slowly separating ourselves from human interaction and replacing it with a virtual alternative, one that you can choose to not accept.

So take a break from your computer and look around you. Smile at the person next to you, or give an old friend a call to hang out. Go to a bar with some friends and challenge yourself to meet new people. Go exercise. Interact with life the old-fashioned way.