Google has become a word that has inserted itself into the dictionary as both a noun and a verb. If one is trying to determine anything that is in the realm of the unknown, google seems to be the choice of many to get the answers. The power of the internet. If its on there it must be true!
Feeling a little unwell, or have a unexplained symptom...google it. You will get a myriad of results that you could pick from to self-diagnose yourself. For the hypochondriac, they can immediately confirm the worst. For the hopeful, they can pick the one that confirms that there is nothing to worry about. In nearly all cases, there is a disclaimer online that says that one should go see a physician if they are truly concerned. Google has in a sense become a medical assistant of sorts...without so much as a background check.
It's a phenomenal tool if you would like to know the weather, or directions to a store, hours of operation, etc. It's like having your own personal assistant in your pocket. Gone are the days of rows and rows and rows of Encyclopedia Brittanica sitting on a family bookshelf. It was nice to have known back then that at least there was some credible research that went into publishing the books.
Take something as simple as how much sleep should an adult get. Googles answer in the first few rows are likely to be 7-10 hours or one will spiral into a chronic sleep debt that will take years off of a life. Scroll down a little farther, and you may see 5-8 is ok. A little bit more and it will pose the argument that it is an individual issue and some can get by with as little as 4 hours. Often then, the comment section of the online world will be filled with tales from those who argue back and forth on their individual beliefs.
I will give a huge nod to those that post the informative videos that can save people a bundle of money if they are willing to do the research. For instance, unclogging a septic line may be something that with a little digging, a clothes pin for your nose, and a strong will not to throw up is something the average person can do without a $500 emergency call from a plumber. Things like simple automotive fixes to cooking the perfect steak can be looked up and given a whirl.
In my own opinion, it is certainly a good start; but nothing beats the expertise of the experienced. There are several little tricks of the trade that are often missed. Often times, the bandit on line creating the content isn't a red seal carpenter...it's some handy fella named Tom in his garage down the street who just does it the way he does it. No rubber stamp from an engineer, no insurance, no other research. The way to get things done properly is to call the expert. The individual who has repeatedly solved the issue with success over and over again. The individual that is backed by a warranty, and the training to get the job done right.
There certainly are times when the DIY is warranted and occasionally necessary. Simple fixes are in those categories, as are many other things that don't result in risking personal safety. Often times, the small things may take a little longer to do, but come with the self gratification and confidence boost of taking care of business. Painting your walls, absolutely fits this category. Hire a painter, and you will see the difference that experience makes. The pro will take the time to pay attention to every detail; while the amateur may get into "good enough" territory.
The world is a better place with Google in it, but a little temperance has to come into play when it comes to believing what shows up in the search results. If you don't believe me...just google it.