By Pratiti Ghosh-Dastidar ’15, Contributor

It is no surprise that we live in a world dependent on technology. However, it is difficult for people to realize when they are using social networking sites to stay connected and when it has become an obsession. We have this constant need for communication and social media outlets can help satisfy this desire. It’s an amazing tool, but sometimes we take it too far. Here are 5 signs that you are too obsessed with social media networks:

1. When you have entire conversations with your friends through Snapchat.

2.  When your Facebook or Twitter becomes a public diary.

3. When your day can be retraced via your Instagram pictures.

4. When pictures you post aren’t about capturing a memory but rather are strategically posted to acquire “likes”.

5. When you spend 3 hours nonstop on Pinterest.

While trying to stay connected with the world, we often forget to stay in the moment. At the end of the day, we don’t need “likes” to validate us nor is it necessary to share every single detail about our life. Sometimes, it is much more effective to log off and spend quality time with those who truly matter to us: family and friends. Of course, these sites are useful in staying connected with those we rarely see, but there needs to be a balance.