Managing time becomes difficult when you get lost browsing through miscellaneous Internet sites. Internet involvement can consume many hours of in an already-tight schedule. Consider the following:

• More than 1 in 20 adults surveyed said their relationships have suffered from excessive use of the Internet.
• An additional 12% said they frequently remain online longer than they would like to.
• 14% claimed it was difficult to stay offline for more than a few days.

When your web browsing activities consume productive hours, affect relationships, are difficult to stay away from, and cause symptoms similar to withdrawal, the positive characteristics of easy Internet access quickly fade.

What can you do to ensure that you have your browsing under control? Try one of these techniques:

• Determine beforehand why you are on the Internet and what you need to find out. Stick with your plan and do not be sidetracked by pop-up ads and unrelated links.
• Set a time limit that fits within your daily schedule. If you need to be reminded when time is up, use your cell phone alarm or some other device to alert you to move on to another activity.

Not being able to get everything done creates stress in your daily life. If Internet use is robbing you of valuable time, resolve to make some changes before it creates long-term problems.