Why do people need others to stay entertained?

My last post centered on how the internet can keep some of us much more entertained than others.

Those who are not big on "things" -- the internet, books, and so on -- turn to people to keep them engaged.

Why is this?

Well, it has to do with two key factors:

1. Our personality
2. Our interests

As I have mentioned in prior posts, extroverts direct their energy outward and thrive on social interaction, while introverts direct their energy inward and feel at their best while engaging in solitary activities like reading and writing.

What's more, we don't all share the same interests. Many people couldn't care less about blogs, message boards, books, or Facebook. While some have remained reluctant to embrace technology, others don't use the internet as frequently because, well, they'd rather be bantering about in person.

The internet can keep me entertained for hours and hours on end, but I realize some people would get flat-out bored after a while and crave a little in-person human contact. Fair enough.

I can go without human contact for extended periods of time. I love living in my head, and while online, I feel like I'm in a world of my own where no one interrupts me. Being online in and of itself is a solitary activity (no chit chatting necessary), which puts in right in my wheelhouse.

Don't get me wrong. As a human being, I still need occasional contact with people in the "real world." But I am far less reliant on in-person social interaction than many of my friends, family members, and co-workers.

What keeps you more entertained -- things or people?

Comments

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