Introduction
This article is being written on a day off.
However, I’ve spent most of it sleeping.
The duration of my sleep is as shown in the image below:
I slept for nearly half a day.
It’s not that I’m feeling unwell, but I just couldn’t find the energy to do anything.
I feel more exhausted now than I used to in the past.
I’m writing this article because I have some thoughts about why I feel so exhausted.
I hope you can read it with the mindset of “Oh, that’s one way to look at it.”
Being “Forced” to Accelerate
Modern society is evolving at a dizzying pace with the advancement of technology.
From new hardware to groundbreaking software, the pace of innovation is relentless.
It’s natural to feel the need to “keep up with the evolution.”
But, is that feeling truly your own will?
With the rise of YouTube Shorts, the culture of donating to streamers, and the prevalence of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), we’ve entered an era where information and content are consumed instantaneously.
Today’s trend becomes outdated in just a few days.
On top of that, advancements in AI technology, advertisements on trains, and limited-time events are happening all around us.
These range from year-end sales campaigns to in-game events.
In summary, we are surrounded by an environment characterized by “acceleration” and “ephemerality.”
Being constantly exposed to such stimuli, it’s easy to normalize this state.
Actively Seeking Acceleration
“Acceleration” isn’t inherently a bad thing.
It often improves convenience and efficiency.
I, too, benefit from it in many ways.
However, I also feel that the ability to think deeply and consider the long term is being eroded.
For example, continuously watching short videos can reduce the time for introspection.
When you keep watching one video after another, it often becomes a self-driven, addictive pursuit of stimulation.
The same applies to social media.
You may overreact to the number of instantaneous “likes” or shares your posts receive.
If this is a good thing is debatable, as it can lead to overemphasizing others’ opinions, lowering self-esteem, and other negative effects.
You may lose sight of yourself, which could lead to mental exhaustion.
The Importance of Intentional Deceleration
Precisely because we live in such busy times, I believe the importance of “deceleration” is growing.
Deceleration doesn’t just mean slowing down your pace.
It involves stepping away from momentary pleasures and stimuli to focus on yourself and your surroundings.
- Step away from computers and smartphones
- Read a book
- Take a walk
- Engage in meaningful “dialogue” with others
There are countless ways to do this.
The key, however, is to “regain your own rhythm.”
Striking a Balance for a Middle Path
Balance is essential for both “acceleration” and “deceleration.”
Excessive acceleration can severely tire the mind and body.
Excessive deceleration can lead to stagnation and boredom.
To walk a balanced middle path, understanding yourself is crucial.
Is it time to push forward, or should you slow down?
I want to live life without mistaking when to press the gas or the brakes.