When I first discovered Pinterest, I disappeared into my bedroom.

I stopped showing up to work and class. I even quit answering my phone. I locked my door and became immersed in the website.

My family kicked down my door after a few days. They found dark circles under my eyes and two fingers glued to my mouse pad. I was exhausted, but still scrolling. After they pried my laptop from my hands, I was forced to delete my account and haven’t used the site since.

That didn’t happen, although I do have an unhealthy obsession with Pinterest. For those of you who don’t know what Pinterest is, it’s a virtual pin board. The different categories include “DIY and Crafts,” “Health and Fitness” and “Quotes,” among many others. Users create “pin boards,” scroll through “pins” and then collect “pins” that they like on their boards.

Basically, it’s like an online magazine. It is updated constantly and contains something to satisfy everyone’s interests.

I think I became addicted so easily is because it makes me feel like a more productive version of myself. Though I’m usually wearing sweats and eating some weird variation of a PB& J (like peanut butter and chocolate chips) while pinning workout tips.

When I look through my pin boards, I realize what an optimist I am. I have pinned numerous recipes, although most of my cooking is done by microwave. I’ve also pinned instructions for making my own clothes, but I don’t have a sewing machine.

Something else that strikes me while looking through my boards is the benefit of Pinterest. It moved me to try things I never would have previously considered.

This summer, I made peach lemonade, and it tasted amazing. I’ve also stumbled upon some beautiful quotes that have become huge sources of encouragement for me.

Today, I’m encouraging my fellow pinners to put down the peanut butter and chocolate chip sandwiches, and go do all those things you’ve been pinning. Get busy doing.