Think about it. Have you ever logged onto Facebook, Twitter or Instagram while at work? I know I’m not alone when I say, I have.

Is it because I’m bored and my boss can’t see me?

Maybe I am just curious what my friends are doing?

The need to log onto social media sites during work hours could be fueled by all of the above, but is it really worth loosing your job? This trend is hurting the workforce and the U.S. is making laws to put a stop to this issue.

“Social Media in The Workplace,” from the Proskauer.com study says that companies have caught on and are banning these sites. Companies are approaching this issues differently as many are encouraging social media use. But for the companies not using social media blockers, they are implementing policies and trainings on how to use social media sites so that “Definitive Ranking Of The Cutest Puppies” article won’t be popping up to distract you.

Can you believe that nearly two-thirds of American adults (65%) use social networking sites? This statistic is up from 7% that was recorded when Pew Research Center caught on to the trend in 2005. Pew also reported that the in addition to work, the rise of social has affected politics as well as the way people receive their news and share information.

As social media users continue to increase, the amount of time wasted per week on non-work related websites is increasing, too.

While social media can be a distraction, its not all bad. Depending on what job you hold, social media could be beneficial to your daily life or interaction with employees and clients. Keeping tabs on the latest news and trends in your industry is a key part of the corporate world. Facebook and Twitter as well as other networks are underrated resources for quick findings. You can use these sites in order to check up on your competition and see if you are ahead or behind the competition.

Next time you’re at work, try keeping track of how much time you spend on social media. I wouldn’t suggest telling your boss that number, but at least you’ll be more aware of how you’re spending your time.

Check out your coworkers as well, look around and see how much time they spend updating their statuses during work.