How do we resist the Attention Economy?

Hi everyone,

The more I Iearn about the impact of technology on our lives, minds, bodies and relationships, the more I see digital wellbeing as a corporate accountability and social justice issue.  

If you haven’t yet, I recommend you check out the recent Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma for a crash course on the attention economy.*

It’s been a challenge for me to find people in my field who are approaching this topic from a systemic lens rather than just one of personal responsibility, and it’s refreshing and validating to meet kindred spirits.

So, imagine my delight when during a recent scroll on Instagram (ironic I know!) I came across Toronto-based Digital Wellness Coach Mehret Biruk‘s feed. 

Mehret is back on the 'gram after taking a 7-year break (wow!) where she devoted her time studying the attention economy, social media, digital devices, and how the internet in general impacts our social, psychological, and physical wellbeing, AND what we can do about it.  

 In her words:

“Technology isn't neutral. It is deliberately designed to capture our attention. 

"The attention economy has infiltrated every aspect of our life. It’s hacking our psychology, taking our agency to choose how we spend our time, impacting the way we have our conversations and our social connection, and changing the fabrics of democracy.

 But, how exactly did we get to this point?”

I’m sharing her excellent article: 

“On the Attention Economy:
How and Why Big Data is Hijacking Your Mind.”  

My favorite line in the article: “What can we do about it?  Pay attention to where you pay attention.”  

Yes!

Go read it and sign up for her newsletter while you’re at it!

Much Love,
Christina

*I have some critiques of the movie that I will share at another time, but they do not override the importance and timeliness of this film.

P.S. If you’ve read this far, thank you! I invite you to join my mailing list for occasional musings and updates on retreats and events. I won't spam you, or share your data. Let's start supporting small businesses on platforms they own!