Information overload- digital and in real life

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 I've been struggling with the concept of information overload and the next steps I should take in my life. In other words, I have too many options and they aren't all that great. There is so much for me to think about and consider when it comes to doing something as simple as deciding to stay in state after graduation or leave that its become a bear to think about. I've found myself trying to research things on the internet such as cost of living in NYS vs Mass and general apartment costs and job opportunities. Despite finding a wealth of information its only seemed to make things worse, now I have too many options and I'm picking over every little detail. When thinking about it,  I think that this may be a pretty big factor in many peoples lives now a days. are you making a big decision? Go research it! Go ask others about it! I think given the over abundance of data at our finger tips in the modern day that things that may have helped to collect a bit of information on before is now just too much. This can also go for medical information. You have symptoms like a headache, nausea, and vomiting? congtars1 you could have 100 different things ranging from cancer to the stomach bug! While I am very much a supporter of freedom to all information, I do think that at times it can truly hinder us.

Comments

  1. Ellen DooleyNovember 14, 2023 at 5:26 PM

    It can be quite a challenge sorting through so much information that can appear from just one search -all the while swatting those pesky advertisements away. I do appreciate my regular sources and the ease with which I can still find them, but am also appreciative of radio programs that deliver news and new songs while doing housework.
    What you describe is likely more challenging for younger people, given they grew up with flashy sources comparing everyone and everything to each other and other things...there are many times that I wish I could see my younger daughter experiencing just a few more years of youth without the internet and social media. It's interesting when I hear of yet another tech exec who won't let their children use screens and social media (or at least limit them). All that being said, i don't miss needing to look at apartment listings in print! Here's hoping that you can find an online source to help make your NYS vs. MA decision!

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  2. Anna V.November 14, 2023 at 6:07 PM

    This is absolutely true. There is so much data, and everyone seems to have an opinion on how it should be interpreted, or the effect it has (or doesn't have!) on our decisions, whether big or small. It's good to have all the information before making a decision. I agree with you about too much information being a hindrance. It makes the decision so much more difficult. I notice this sometimes in customers when they are deciding on a product. They have read reviews and talked to everyone, but actually deciding which item to get is a struggle. They have been going over all these details and it makes that decision so much more difficult.

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  3. Natalie StansburyNovember 14, 2023 at 6:14 PM

    I too find the wealth of information wonderful at times and a burden at others. Just yesterday I was looking up a health concern and at first was relaxed to find it is a relatively normal symptom (OK I am willing to admit here, it had to do with perimenopause, yay me) but as I scrolled my brain went "Wait, what? Oh no!" So obviously my doctor is going to give me the right answer (don't worry it is nothing major). But again, will I ever learn? DO NOT GOOGLE symptoms! On the other hand, I have googled symptoms and found a diagnosis my doctor could not - I have postural orthostatic tachycardia that is difficult to diagnos! Anyway, my point is, yes. Sometimes it is too much. But sometimes you find exactly what you need. In fact I found the most perfect dessert to satisfy my game night group of 8 picky eaters, which includes my husband who has celiacs. For a friend's birthday that loves cream puffs I found the most delicisou cream puff cake that was easily made gluten free. Thank you GOOGLE! I actually love you...today.

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