Rediscovering Human Experience in a Digital Age
In today's world, it appears to me that human experience is losing its footing, overshadowed by an obsession with technology that siphons away our ability to engage and interact authentically. This trend is evident in the way we prioritize screen time over face-to-face interactions, sacrificing the richness of human connection for the distraction of digital content. As a result, experimentation on a human level is often missing, hindering our ability to tap into the depth of human interaction that drives creativity and innovation.
Human give and take is a catalyst for creativity, as we get to hear diverse perspectives that challenge our assumptions, and spark new ideas. Obsessive attention to devices has created a barrier to meaningful human connection, leading to a decline in our ability to engage in genuine dialogue and collaboration. We miss out on the nuances of non-verbal cues, the spontaneity of face-to-face interaction, and the emotional depth that comes from shared experiences. Walk down any hallway at any school and you’ll see virtually every person staring into their hands rather than shooting the breeze with the person next to them. I really feel like this is a problem. I’m trying my hardest not to be a scold…but the art of engaging in conversation - the ability to test your curiosity and skill as a person who can engage and actively listen - is really a rare talent. And it will separate young job-seeking creatives from the pack.
Making a conscious effort to prioritize human interaction over our devices not only enriches our personal lives but also enhances our professional endeavors. Young people who engage in diverse experiences and interactions are better equipped to navigate complex social dynamics and communicate effectively in various contexts. This translates into improved performance in job interviews, where the ability to connect with interviewers on a human level can make a significant difference. The pandemic took a toll…I don’t think we really understand yet how much this young creative cohort was affected. But recognizing the impact from the past few years then actively moving to expand and refine our social skills is a worthy pursuit.
To counteract this trend towards isolation and reconnect with the essence of human experience, it is imperative to break free from the confines of screens and open up to the world. By immersing ourselves in real-life experiences, we can rediscover the joy of human connection and stimulate our creativity. This can take many forms: from physical activities like playing basketball or swimming, sharing meals or coffee, or saying yes to that happy hour. It can be a real challenge, but so worth the effort.
It also enables us to bring a broader perspective to our work. By engaging with people from different backgrounds and cultures, exploring new environments, and embracing novel experiences, we cultivate a more inclusive and innovative mindset that fuels creativity and problem-solving. My time in the classroom as an adjunct professor allows me to learn so much from such a diverse community through our interactions and big, device-free blocks of time together - and then channel that energy into my creative work. Time spent in conversation with these brilliant young minds energizes my work.
The pervasive influence of technology is certainly leading to a disconnect from authentic human experience, but I don’t think it’s irreversible. At least I hope it’s not. By consciously choosing to prioritize human interaction, engaging in real-life experiences, and expanding our horizons beyond the digital realm, we can reclaim the richness of human connection and infuse our creativity with depth and authenticity. So, put the screen back in your pocket, go out into the world, experience life in all its depth and diversity, and watch as your personal and professional life flourish.