While there are many articles that give advice about freeing oneself from digital addiction, this is one of the few that emphasizes self-reflection. In my opinion, this points to the root of the pain that drives addiction. It's only when we understand ourselves that we can effectively resist the lure of immediate gratification.

As a society, our ability to tolerate lulls in the flow of amusement continually shrinks. We string ourselves through the day from one fix to the next. Dealing with our demons is one of those tasks we tend to avoid until we've exhausted all other options. Unfortunately, we've been given a device that seems designed to make mental suffering disappear, though it always comes back refreshed. The best tip seems to be that of Sgt. Barnes in the movie Platoon: "Accept the pain." Thanks for well-written article and the straight advice.