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Sometimes some of us find ourselves senselessly checking social networking sites for hours. This often turns into dependence, which negatively affects the quality of our lives and reduces productivity at work. Despite the heavy workload, some people can’t quite tear themselves away from Facebook, Twitter, or Wikipedia. A survey earlier this year by the internet blocking company Webtrate showed that 36% of respondents lost an hour of productivity a day because of checking social media and emails. In fact, employees do not see how a few minutes turn into hours of spending on the Internet. That is why lots of people nowadays are turning to apps that block certain websites.
A special reason for checking entertainment websites and social networks for hours is working from home. The mobile apps developer Fred Stutzman believes that changes in our working habits, including a move towards working remotely, have highlighted the challenges that come with our easy access to online content. According to him, the real value of the blocking apps isn’t really in blocking anything but in strengthening the user’s inner ability to control their actions. He believes users should be able to choose specific sites to block voluntarily rather than being imposed by their employers.
Finn Christo, an international ecommerce manager for an online fashion company, says, “I need to keep mentally stimulated, so I do browse a lot when I need a break, but I felt a little weird constantly going on Facebook.” He’s not too sure if the app has improved his productivity, but it’s certainly put a stop to the temptation of accessing social media.
