My Media Life and Screen Time

 

From Analog to Digital: How My Media Habits Changed

Media has always been a big part of my life, but the way I consume it has completely transformed over the years. I grew up with traditional media like books, newspapers, and TV, which shaped my understanding of the world. But with the rise of digital technology, my media habits have become much more interactive, personalized, and convenient.

Starting with Analog Media

When I think back to my early experiences with media, they were simple yet impactful. Books, magazines, newspapers, and TV were my go-to sources for information and entertainment. They were straightforward—offering content that I could consume without much interaction.

Everything changed when I got my first Nokia phone. It was a basic device with just calls, text messages, and one game, but it opened the door to a new way of engaging with media. That little phone symbolized a big shift: moving from consuming static content to interacting with it.

Embracing Digital Media

Now, digital media is at the center of how I gather information. I rarely use traditional media like newspapers or TV anymore because online platforms are faster, more convenient, and better suited to my needs.

For updates about my home country, I rely on Sri Lankan government websites, which provide accurate and trustworthy information. For international news, I prefer BBC because it offers well-rounded global coverage. And for local updates here in Finland, I count on Yle, the national broadcaster, for thoughtful and detailed reporting.

Having all this information available in real-time has made it so much easier to stay informed. Plus, I can double-check facts across multiple platforms, which wasn’t an option with traditional media.

Staying Connected

Living far from family and friends, digital platforms have become my lifeline. Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram make it easy to stay in touch, even when we're miles apart. Sharing updates, photos, and moments feels effortless and helps me maintain close connections.

For school and work, tools like Zoom and Teams have been game-changers. They make learning and collaborating simple, no matter where I am.

I also find myself drawn to visual content—images and videos grab my attention much more than plain text. This preference has made social media and digital platforms even more enjoyable and engaging for me.

Looking back, my journey with media shows how much the way we consume information has changed. Digital tools have completely redefined my habits, making it easier to stay informed, connected, and engaged.

Whether it’s keeping in touch with family, staying on top of global news, or pursuing my education, digital media plays a huge role in my daily life. In this fast-changing world, learning to adapt to new technologies isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.