Finding Purpose as an Author in a World of Technology

Understanding the Role of Technology

Technology is a central part of our lives. It changes how we work, communicate, and even relax. But with this very rapid change, many people feel lost or disconnected and there's lots of research in this space.

Let's look at perhaps the most ubiquitous piece of technology; the smartphone. In Ireland, mobile phones have become the preferred device for browsing shopping websites, making online purchases, online searches, banking and playing games. People here check their smartphones over 50 times daily.

The Deloitte Digital Consumer Trends report is an annual survey of consumers, which explores their digital usage and attitudes towards technology and is worth exploring here. A survey carried out in August 2023, with 1,000 people between the ages of [18 and 75] in Ireland was conducted and reports that 98% of 18-75-year-olds use their smartphone every day, with more than a third doing so during mealtimes and 74% saying they do so as soon as they wake up compared with 59% a year ago. Half of respondents (52%) say they stay awake later than planned because they use their devices into the night. 

Finding purpose in this tech-driven world can be challenging, but it is essential. We need to understand how technology affects us, as it can both help and hinder our search for meaning. As with all things, by using technology wisely, we can find new ways to connect with others and ourselves and by not doing so, we are going to land ourselves in a world of trouble.

Tomczyk and Selmanagic Lizde (2023) have reported on the intensity of digital media use, especially smartphones, and noted the screen time criterion is complex and needs to be disaggregated into several specific indicators. 

A life hack I try to impress on my authors, is that they set boundaries for their tech use. For example, limit screen time and take regular breaks, which can help one stay grounded and focused on what truly matters; writing.

 Using Technology for Personal Growth

Technology offers many tools for personal growth. Online courses, apps, and virtual communities can help us learn new skills and meet like-minded people and here's just some below.

Online Courses:

Coursera - Creative Writing Specialization

This specialization is offered by Wesleyan University and covers three major creative writing genres: short story, narrative essay, and memoir. The course helps authors to improve their writing skills, understand the intricacies of storytelling, and receive constructive feedback from peers.

MasterClass - Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing

Margaret Atwood, a celebrated author, offers insights into the creative writing process, including how to build compelling characters, develop plots, and refine your narrative voice. MasterClass offers high-quality video lessons and practical exercises.

Udemy - Write Your Book: Start Strong and Get It Done

This course is designed for writers at any stage of their book project. It provides guidance on planning, writing, and finishing a book, including tips on maintaining motivation, structuring content, and overcoming common writing obstacles.

Skillshare - Storytelling for Writers: How to Create Compelling Stories

This class, taught by acclaimed authors and writing coaches, focuses on the elements of storytelling, character development, plot structure, and creating engaging narratives. Skillshare offers a community aspect where authors can share their work and get feedback.

The Novelry - The Complete Novel Writing Course

The Novelry offers a comprehensive course that guides writers from the initial idea to a finished manuscript. It includes one-on-one coaching, workshops, and a supportive community of writers. The course is suitable for beginners and experienced writers alike.

Apps:

Scrivener

Scrivener is a powerful writing app designed for long documents like novels and research papers. It offers tools for organizing ideas, structuring documents, and managing references, making it easier for authors to focus on their writing.

Grammarly

Grammarly is an AI-powered writing assistant that helps authors with grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style. It also provides advanced suggestions for clarity, engagement, and tone, ensuring that your writing is polished and professional.

ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid is a comprehensive editing tool that goes beyond grammar checking to include style suggestions, readability analysis, and detailed reports on various aspects of writing. It helps authors improve their manuscripts before submission or publication.

Evernote

Evernote is a versatile note-taking app that allows authors to organize their research, jot down ideas, and keep track of their writing progress. Its powerful search functionality and cross-device synchronization make it an essential tool for writers on the go.

Hemingway Editor

Hemingway Editor is a writing tool that focuses on clarity and simplicity. It highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and adverbs, encouraging authors to write in a clear, concise style. This app is particularly useful for self-editing and improving readability.

Virtual Communities:

NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month)

NaNoWriMo is a nonprofit organization that provides a platform for authors to write a novel in a month (November). It offers a supportive community, writing resources, and events throughout the year to help authors stay motivated and connected.

Absolute Write Water Cooler

Absolute Write is a large online community for writers of all genres. The Water Cooler forums provide a space for authors to discuss writing, share experiences, seek advice, and network with other writers, editors, and agents.

Scribophile

Scribophile is a community for writers that emphasizes peer critiques and feedback. Authors can post their work, receive constructive criticism, and participate in writing groups and forums. The community is supportive and dedicated to helping writers improve their craft.

The Write Life Community

The Write Life offers articles, resources, and a vibrant community for writers. It covers topics such as writing, marketing, publishing, and freelancing, providing valuable insights and support for authors at every stage of their writing journey.

Reddit - r/writing

The r/writing subreddit is a large and active community where authors can ask questions, share advice, and discuss all aspects of writing. It's a great place to connect with fellow writers, seek feedback, and find inspiration.

In using any, or indeed all, of the above, identify your interests and goals. Then, find the tech resources that most support them and, of course, ones that you understand. This can turn technology into a powerful ally in your journey of self-discovery.

Join online groups or forums related to your interests. Participate in discussions and share your experiences. This can help you build a supportive network that will work for you. 

Mindful Tech Use

Mindfulness can improve our relationship with technology. By being present and aware, we can use tech in a way that enhances our lives rather than detracts from it.

Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Apply these practices to your tech use. For instance, take a moment to breathe before checking your phone.

Conclusion

Finding purpose in a world of technology is possible. By balancing digital and real life, using tech for growth, creating connections, practicing mindfulness, and serving others, authors can manage all the tech that is now at our fingertips and embed it in our daily lives in a manner that is helpful to the human condition.

References 

https://www.deloitte.com/ie/en/about/press-room/consumer-trends-smartphone-usage.html 

Tomczyk, Ł., & Selmanagic Lizde, E. (2023). Is real screen time a determinant of problematic smartphone and social network use among young people? Telematics and Informatics, 82, 101994.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tele.2023.101994.