“You are an info-junkie!”
That’s what I was called today. I’m still not sure whether it was meant as a complement or rather an insult….
However, I didn't take it negatively. Rather, I saw it as a confirmation of the extensive time I dedicate to reading, watching, listening, and studying. On what topics? My current focus revolves mainly around digital transformation. At the moment, I'm reading the book 'Digital Transformation' by Sander Jansen and James Van de Merbel. I am also delving into the significance of data and the ethical aspects of data collection (a.o. the Netflix documentary 'The Great Hack,' which exposes the use of Facebook data by Cambridge Analytical in the Trump-election campaign and the Brexit-Leave campaign; additionally the documentary “So much about Digital” & “The social dilemma’). And in parallel , I’m going through an intensive refresher course in Spanish.
Surely, the comment got me intrigued… Is ‘info-junkie’ even a word?!
Apparently it IS!
See dictionary here :
Just now, I discovered there are even various types of infojunkies! (here) These include Scientist, Infopreneur, Salesman, and Creative. I suppose I would align more with the creative type. Always thinking on ‘what can I do with this?’, ‘how can I apply it’?
Reading through these definitions & articles, I find myself able to connect with some of the descriptions.
Yes, I seem to be addicted to new information, in the sense that I’m eager to learn about new stuff; especially about things that cross my path. It could be considered somewhat of an addiction because, if I go too long without delving into various topics, I experience an internal restlessness, a sort of brain-itch. My mind craves information to process or to reflect on.
Hence, yes, my day typically kicks off with an eager scan of news headlines, technological updates, and social media feeds . And every now and then… my brain tells me ‘stop’. “Too much thinking ongoing”. And then I enjoy lazy moments, social events, sports or … watching a brainless series.
But then…. Is this negative?
Being an info-junkie has helped me over and over again to contribute to problem-solving, to bring inspiration & knowledge to others, to get a new perspective (this is the best example… I wasn’t even aware of the term, and it does gives me a new perspective on me/my behaviour). It can also be a starting point for an interesting discussion during a networking event; or …
What I don’t think that resonates with me from certain articles is the concept of ‘paralysis by analysis’. I do not get lost in the pursuit of that extra piece of information solely for the sake of it. As much as I do enjoy the process of reading, it is always driven by a specific purpose. And I continuously reflect ‘how can I apply this’; ‘how does this relate to what I see or what is happening’. … Moreover, I make use of the knowledge I gain. I am selective about what I choose to educate myself on. I also don’t limit myself to only short online posts that may come across as superficial or opportunistic. I truly enjoy the depth of a good book. I even take notes while reading and make a point to summarise and revisit my notes to ensure that the essence of the material sticks as much as possible.
Still, the comment has triggered some introspection.
If the brain reacts to novelty by releasing dopamine; the so-called feel-good’ neurochemical; and if this is indeed similar to what happens with addictions to drugs … then yes, the comparison with a junkie makes sense. And I accept that there might be a real risk of ‘not delivering’.
Hence, I'm now a bit more self-aware not to be addicted to learning, but to be addicted to 'taking action’ (quote by someone; but I don't recall who).
And I'll continue to embrace my addiction and let it guide me to new paths or interesting conversations.
I mostly remember:
"Hi, I’m Els. And I’m an addict 😉"
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