If you find yourself increasingly unable to put your mobile, laptop or other gadget down and take a break or have a simple conversation, then you could be turning into a digital zombie. If your life seems to revolve around social media, emails and constant information overload, then you need to do something about it now.
No – this isn’t another article bemoaning the way that technology has taken over our lives. We live in a world that uses technology – it’s a great means to stay connected to friends and family and get work done efficiently.
But, we all need a break sometimes. Carrying a mobile phone around (everywhere…name a room in your house that hasn’t felt the presence of your mobile, I dare you!) like an extra body part can be like carrying your work and friends around with you everywhere you go.
If you’ve had enough and need a digital detox, you won’t be the first person. The question is, how do you do it effectively? Here are some tips.
1. Don’t Sleep With Your Phone
There have been some reports about mobile phones overheating and setting alight, so if you’re afraid of leaving your mobile under your pillow, it could be dangerous – especially if it’s plugged into the charger.
The other reason to not sleep with your phone in your bed, too close to you at night, is because every notification (whether it’s a vibrate or the screen lights up) will be tempting. Carrying your mobile around all day, every day, and at night time means you never give your mind a break. There really is more to life.
2. Switch It Off
To effectively switch off your phone as a part of the digital detox, it’s crucial to establish a specific time in the evening when you will power down your device. This approach is akin to going cold turkey, which can often be the most effective method. By setting a strict cut-off time for your phone usage, you are taking a decisive step towards reducing your digital dependency.
Consider informing your close contacts and letting them know that you will be available only through your landline in emergencies, ensuring they understand this is not a measure to avoid them but a way to create personal boundaries. Work-related communications can also be deferred until the next working day, if they outside your work hours, reinforcing the idea that not all digital engagements demand immediate responses. Remember, the world managed just fine before the omnipresence of mobile phones, and a temporary disconnection can help you reclaim your mental space and focus.
3. Read a Book
It’s a sad fact that 35% of adults don’t read for pleasure, according to the Adult and Child Report, Department for Culture Media and Sport.
Sadly, as much as 15% of the working age population in England (5.1m people) are at or below the level of literacy expected of an 11-year-old child.
While that might not be you, not reading means your children could also grow to dislike reading. With all the fun of iPads and other gadgets, reading won’t appeal to them unless you can create a culture of reading at home. This will prove difficult if you don’t lead by example.
4. Give Your Brain a Rest
The mere idea of disconnecting can be daunting, as our modern lives revolve around constant communication. However, it’s worth remembering that just a decade ago, living without immediate mobile connectivity was commonplace, and we got by just fine. At times, being perpetually reachable can actually be more of a burden than a benefit.
To ensure a smoother digital detox journey, it’s important to communicate your temporary unavailability to your friends and family. This way, they’ll understand this isn’t about ignoring them but rather about creating some much-needed personal space and balance.
