Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/254629
time f or With Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, people are more connected than ever. Sometimes trying to capture— and share—the moment can actually interrupt it. Here's how to know when to put down your phone and enjoy things IRL [in real life]. Leave your cell phone at the door! Make real moments. Enjoy that sunset with #nofilter and without your phone. Trying to Instagram everything actually takes enjoyment out of the moment. Also know when it's appropriate to Instagram. Weddings, for example, may have a no-social-media policy to allow the professional photographer to catch the first kiss or bouquet toss in high definition. Feel free to get that candid shot with the happy couple afterward in the receiving line. Look beyond your friends list. Real-life relationships aren't about numbers; they're about connection and support. Don't compare yourself to Facebook friends who are showered with "likes" for every post and have a never-ending series of (seemingly) monumental events for their timelines. Instead, use Facebook as a vehicle to actually meet up with people in per- son. Organize events or parties and enjoy spending actual time with others. See what other people are doing this weekend and then private message them so you can hang out together. If you find yourself getting too attached or overwhelmed, limit Facebook to friends and family who live out of town and pick up your phone to make plans with local friends instead. Face-to-face social time = No smartphones allowed. Whether you're having dinner out with friends, going to a movie matinee with the family or getting in a round of golf, put the smartphone on silent and out of sight. There's nothing more annoying than being the only person at the table who's not glued to a touch screen or seeing a screen light up when you're trying to concentrate on a dramatic plot twist at the movies. If you have trouble getting your tech- free point across when you're out with others at dinner, have everyone stack his or her phones in the middle of the table. The first one to reach for their phone has to foot the bill. To limit screen time at home, have a basket or area in your common room where your family has to leave their phones or tab- lets until family time is over. relationships + you // 1 5