When Is It Time to Sign Off?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/fr3d/ / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Like many others, I was excited about the release of Apple’s new tablet device earlier today. Although it appears to be more of a multimedia device than a communications device, it did get me thinking about the countless platforms that allow us to be in constant contact with one another.

iPhones. Blackberries. Email. Facebook. Twitter. Gchat. Skype. Google Wave. iPods. Netbooks. Blogs. Forums. A seemingly infinite number of smaller social networking sites. (Not to mention snail mail and … gasp … the telephone!)

If we wanted, we could communicate with others all day, every day. And if we were willing to listen, others could contact us at any given time.

So my question is — when is it time to sign off?

Countless people have addressed this issue as it relates to evening and weekend work-related communications. They have discussed whether employees should be compensated for this, what is considered appropriate, and ways to avoid the problem completely.

I suppose I am looking at this issue from more of an overall perspective. For example, I happen to be connected online for professional, hobby-related, and social reasons. Keeping on top of all three can undoubtedly be tricky at times, and prioritization has proven to be crucial.

Unfortunately, there are only so many hours in the day, and I do value my life in the *real* world as well. So when, if ever, does it become appropriate to ignore those comments on your Facebook page, or disregard those who retweeted my link? And how long before the inevitable guilt sets in?

And when to go out with good friends vs. writing that new blog post?

And when to catch up on my Google Reader vs. diving into the book that’s been sitting on my nightstand for weeks?

And when to just sign off?

Don’t get me wrong — I love the fact that I’m connected with so many people in so many ways. I’ve just always relied on my gut feelings when encountering the situations above, and haven’t come up with a standard game plan.

I’m interested in hearing how others prioritize their social media communications, especially vs. activities in the real world. Please share!