I made peace some time ago with the idea that the internet is now one of my "hobbies". Of course, the internet is so much more, too. However, you get the idea.
The internet is where I interact with like-minded individuals with like-interests. It's where I do research into history and things that I find fascinating. I learn about things of interest, received good advice concerning a trip into a new region, even find entertainment thereon, etc, etc, etc. The internet has essentially replaced TV for me. I even conduct business over the internet with purchases and sales. The net has revolutionized my knowledge base and access to information. The net is so many things. It's unbelievable how it has become intrinsic with the day-to-day process of living.
Currently, I'm in the process of digging up rail-related information about Rogers, AR, circa the late 1880's. Previously, this same approach has yielded unimaginable information concerning obscure rail towns in the Ozark and Ouachita mountains. Try that without the internet. I know I tried it without the internet for decades: My information base quadrupled once the internet caught on and more historical information began to be posted.
A waste of time? Depends on what you surf!
Andre