As a disclaimer…the following is not intended as a true diagnosis or a cure…please check with your local social media expert to determine if you are in fact an addict.

So how do you know if you enjoy an online existence or if you are in fact addicted to social media? Maybe these questions will help you decide:

1. Do you check your facebook more than 3 times a day?

2. Do you have a facebook, twitter, myspace, mybloglog, and a blog site…concurrently?

3. Do you have more than 2 blogs?

4.Do you subscribe to more than 3 blogs ?

5. Do you find yourself talking about the latest updates on Facebook more than you talk about school, work, or even family?

If you answered yes to more than one of these questions then you may in fact have an addiction. I cast no judgement as I am one of those sheepishly answering yes to all 5 of the questions listed above.

So how do you cut the cord?

A respected friend once told me that in order to truly be free, you must view your “addiction” as you would any other – that means taking it one day at a time.

First step – admit you have a problem….and don’t post it on Facebook!

Second step – reach out for support – tell your friends that you are attempting to cut back on your computer (or other internet device) usage – NOTE: you must do this in person….no twitter, facebook or even e-mails allowed!!!!

Third step – go for 24 hours without updating your status….if you backslide, simply start over. If you are determined you can do this. Try to distract yourself with that scary thing called “the real world”….go outside, smell the flowers, feel the breeze, listen to the birds….

The main thing to remember is this – the internet and the world of social media is a wonderful thing, if like anything else, it is enjoyed in moderation.

Now I must go…..it  has been a whole 23 minutes since I checked my e-mail…..and I think I am in withdrawal.