Writers 
From time immemorial entertainment has been a part of human life. Whether it's sitting around a campfire or sitting in front of a television set, radio or on stage, everyone has a way to unwind, connect and forget about the stress of real life. But the digital revolution has revolutionized our entertainment consumption. There are few places and times I'm not able to be entertained thanks to smartphones, social media, streaming platforms, and online gaming.
However, this begs an important question: is connecting more, or is it just being distracted more?
It's undeniable that digital technology has made entertainment more easily accessible. One can watch a film, listen to music, watch a football match, or laugh out loud and out of place. No longer do we need to wait for some particular TV programme or radio broadcast. In a few seconds thousands of entertainment options can be available with the use of a smartphone and internet connection.
Digital entertainment has also enabled people to be connected to each other all across the globe. A Nigerian can follow an American musician, watch an English football club, or interact with friends of a specific film from abroad. With the rise of social media, people are forming friendships, sharing opinions and connecting with individuals who share similar interests in communities.
The digital era has made opportunities for artists and creators that were impossible before. Artists, directors, comedians, authors, and creators can connect with audiences directly, circumventing the need to rely solely on traditional media giants. A good idea could be disseminated from one person to millions of people in a surprisingly short time.
This is also a drawback, however.
There is a greater sense of connection in our digital lives and a greater sense of distraction in our personal lives.
People start the day checking their phone and end the day, scrolling through social media. One video is followed by another, one notification is followed by another, and what started off as five minutes of fun can turn into hours.
It is not an entertainment problem. The issue occurs when we start to let entertainment distract us.
For some, it may be hard to focus on meaningful tasks when they are constantly stimulated by digital technology. Students can have a hard time studying without checking notifications. Constantly switching between work and social media is allowed for workers. Phones can interrupt even conversations with family and friends.
In addition, there is risk of comparing life with what is seen on-line. Social media can sometimes feature a sanitized version of a person's life. Exposure to others' successes, lives, relationships, and possessions can foster false expectations.
Meanwhile, digital entertainment can be a true source of bliss. A hilarious video can make someone's day! Music can offer solace. A film might motivate someone. An online community may be able to help a person feel less alone.
So maybe the question isn't so much about good or bad, but whether or not digital entertainment is possible. The question is: "Are we controlling our entertainment or is our entertainment controlling us?"
Technology is a tool. It can be used for learning, connecting, creating, relaxing, and discovery of new experiences. However, we must also have the discipline to set our mobile phones aside, engage in real conversations and concentrate on our duties, and enjoy life beyond the screen.
Being connected is simple these days in the digital era. The difficulty lies in keeping in touch with what's important.