Reading on a mobile phone is unlikely to provide the same level of satisfaction and understanding as derived from conventional reading. There is also a greater possibility of distraction, generally leading to limited or weaker retention.
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The Silent Decline in Physical and Mental Well-being
The time-tested adage, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise” reflects the importance of leading a disciplined life. However, owing to the disproportionate use of mobile phones, many Chartered Accountants, particularly the younger generation, are falling into irregular lifestyle routines and patterns such as sleeping late, waking late, neglecting physical exercise or activities such as morning walks or practicing yoga.
The aforementioned habits are not consistent with the natural rhythm of the body and may lead to health issues such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, weak eyesight and a host of other diseases. Recent research has also proved that constant use of mobile phones can lead to several mental disorders, some of which may be even incurable. Therefore, every individual must consider it their responsibility to prioritize their health to prevent decline in the long run.
“My worst investment has been my health. I would encourage everybody to invest the most in that.”
While there may be several factors beyond our control that may result in a decline of health, the excessive use of mobile phones is certainly one we can control. Good health is one of our greatest assets and maintaining it is essential for both personal well-being and professional efficiency. As members of a demanding and intellectually intensive profession, Chartered Accountants must prioritise their health and take necessary remedial measures to monitor their screen time and safeguard their physical and mental well-being.
Together Yet Apart: The New Reality of Family Time
The profession of Chartered Accountancy is often pursued by individuals belonging to middleclass families, who often have limited interaction with their family members due to the extensive course curriculum, which demands consistency and hard work during articleship and exam preparations. Family often accepts this as a temporary phase, hoping for things to return to normal once their child qualifies the CA examination.
However, with the growing penetration of mobile phones and its increasing usage, the emotional and communication gap between family members is widening drastically, even after the qualification of exam.
Earlier, family life reflected a strong sense of togetherness and belonging, which can seldom be seen now. Previously, dinner time that often lasted for an hour or so with conversations, humour, and exchange of ideas, has now shrunk to a few minutes, often without any meaningful interactions, as family members remain engrossed in their respective mobile phones. Must Check Motivations to Commit Financial Statement Frauds.
The aforementioned state of affairs is rather alarming and worrisome. While there is no harm in using a mobile phone sensibly and judiciously, its excessive usage at the expense of family bonding is detrimental. Nothing can replace a family’s love and affection, which can be better appreciated by those who stay away from their homes owing to professional commitments.
Celebrations and Condolences in the Changing Digital World
Chartered Accountants are essentially social by nature. During the course of articleship, they interact with various clients, colleagues, seniors, and juniors, making social engagements a part of their professional lives. It is through these interactions that professionals often learn several new things and valuable life lessons. A Chartered Accountant must maintain harmonious and friendly relations, both personally and professionally, to nurture meaningful connections.
In earlier times, Chartered Accountants would often engage and actively participate in social events, such as weddings or the birth of a child, often visiting homes of friends and relatives to deliver invitations and using that opportunity to strengthen personal bonds and foster a sense of togetherness.
However, with the increasing usage of mobile phones, personal touch has diminished over time. With the growing use of digital invitations, they can now be easily shared through digital platforms, which has further reduced in-person interactions. Not only that, but this shift has also been evident in moments of grief and sorrow, where heartfelt visits from near and dear ones have been replaced by brief, impersonal condolence messages, offering little to no emotional comfort or support.
Therefore, as an individuals or professionals, we must remember that there is no substitute for genuine human connection. Whether in times of happiness or sorrow, physical presence and personal interactions always remain irreplaceable, something that mobile phones can never achieve.
