Why less scrolling, more making? As conference interpreters, we’re no strangers to consuming vast amounts of information. From industry-specific terminology to endless PowerPoint decks, our work revolves around absorbing, processing, and delivering knowledge. These activities are often rewarding: We learn new things, explore different industries, and steadily build our expertise with every assignment.
But here’s the catch: the quest for information doesn’t stop when the workday ends. Sound familiar? I’ve caught myself mindlessly scrolling late at night, chasing that “just one more click” impulse. What starts as a quick search spirals into an endless loop of reels, stories, and bite-sized articles. Before I know it, hours have vanished, and I’m left with little more than a sense of wasted time.
So I decided to flip the script. Instead of passively consuming, I’ve committed to creating more than I consume. Whether it’s writing posts, commenting thoughtfully, organizing knowledge into digital folders, or even making lists, I’ve found that active engagement is the antidote to the scrolling rabbit hole.
Here’s why this shift matters:
- Deeper Learning: When you articulate ideas in your own words, you reinforce your understanding and gain new insights.
- Better Retention: Creating content helps solidify knowledge – it’s like teaching what you’ve learned.
- Meaningful Connections: Sharing your experiences sparks conversations and builds bridges with like-minded professionals.
A friend recently confessed that she reads less than she used to, thanks to the endless allure of social media. I don’t think she’s alone. In a world of infinite content, it’s easy to fall into the trap of passive consumption.
How do you balance consumption and creation in your professional life? And have you found ways to make your learning more active and intentional?
