Categories: Technology

Everything You Should Know About A Digital Detox

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is a huge factor in our day-to-day lives. It is how many people communicate with each other, get work done and spend their leisure time. With the emergence of smartphones years ago, it seems everyone is even more dependent on technology than ever before.

With the world seemingly at our fingertips, it can be difficult to separate ourselves from the technology we use every day. Social media usage, in particular, can have adverse effects on our mental and, sometimes, physical health, which is why making a concerted effort to take some time off from technology can be a very beneficial thing.

In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of taking a digital detox and how to go about doing so in a constructive way.

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What Is A Digital Detox?

To fully understand why a digital detox can be crucial to your mental and physical well-being, it is important to know exactly what a digital detox means.

A digital detox is exactly as it sounds. It is a period of time spent disconnected from all forms of technology.

This can include television, smartphones, video games, computers, tablets, and the internet in general. We have become so immersed in the world of technology that it can be hard to imagine even a few days spent without it.

That is exactly the point of conducting a digital detox. To separate yourself from technology and relearn how to live without it. Living without the help of technology for a few days, weeks, or months can help to repair your relationship with technology and yourself and, hopefully, step back into using digital mediums in a healthier, more balanced way.

Throughout the years, most people have become more and more addicted to their smartphones, computers, and other tech, and they may not even realize it. The amount of time people spend looking at screens has increased substantially, and we have become pretty reliant on technology for so many aspects of our lives.

The goal of a digital detox is not to rid yourself of using technology but rather to take time off and rediscover other hobbies and ways of navigating your day that doesn’t involve a screen.

Why Should You Do A Digital Detox?

As mentioned previously, conducting a digital detox can be beneficial in numerous ways. There are many reasons why someone may choose to step away from technology for a while.

Some may choose to go through detox from technology for productivity purposes. Technology can be, and usually is, a huge distraction in our everyday lives. It can distract us from having productive conversations and quality time spent with our loved ones.

Everyone is guilty of picking their phone up to look at an incoming text or check an app mid-conversation with someone. During a digital detox, this is no longer a temptation, and it allows people to become fully engaged in what they are doing.

This can help to improve mental health because you are fully engaging in social activities and building better relationships without distractions. Stepping away from technology can also remove distractions that may be hindering your ability to get work done.

Removing the temptation to be on your phone, for example, during your work day, can greatly improve your productivity and attention to detail.

Along the same lines of thinking, doing a digital detox can help you set priorities and manage your time more wisely. This can help improve your work life, home life, and personal life by allowing you more time to get done all of the tasks you set for yourself on a given day.

Living in a world that is always connected and we’re always accessible to everyone can be draining. Unplugging for a while can be super helpful to clear your headspace and give you time that is truly all yours.

Sometimes too much of something can have negative effects, and that is true when it comes to being connected to the world at all hours of the day. Social media, in particular, can have adverse mental health effects by causing an unhealthy habit of comparison. Moreover, a digital detox can save you money by keeping you from being a consumer. You won’t be on your phone scrolling through clothes or looking at that nee watch that just came out.

Oftentimes, seeing what others are doing, whether it’s something like getting a new job or traveling the world, can cause you to have a negative outlook on your own life if you feel you’re not measuring up.

Disconnecting from technology can help alleviate some of that social pressure and allow you to focus on your own life without comparison.

How Long Should A Digital Detox Last?

There is no roadmap for how long any one person should do a digital detox. Each person has to make that decision for themselves. Some who choose to go through a digital purge only want to do a few days to test out how living without technology is.

Others, however, may feel they are way too dependent on it, it is affecting their mental space, or are feeling overwhelmed by being too accessible. In these cases, people may choose to go without technology for longer periods to feel the full benefits of taking a break.

Whether you take a few days, a few weeks, or even a couple of months off, the idea is to come back to the connected world refreshed, with a clearer mind, and feeling more equipped to deal with the pressures and addictive nature that technology comes with.

Helpful Tips To Complete A Digital Detox

Taking a digital detox can be done as your see fit, however, but there are a few steps you can take that will be helpful in the process.

If you don’t wish to completely separate yourself from technology, it can be helpful to schedule time throughout the day to step away from screens. This way, you can still feel connected but also have set times to take a break.
If you use an iPhone, you can set limits on your screen time and set limits on which apps can be used during “down” times.
If you wish to completely do without technology for some time, you can start by figuring out what you wish to accomplish by doing so.
Remove all apps that you find too tempting.
Shut off your computer and phone and unplug your TV, so it is easier to resist looking at them.
You can put your phone on “do not disturb” so you can still receive calls in case of emergencies but will not be bombarded with other notifications.

Each person’s digital detox will be unique to them and their specific needs. There are plenty of resources out there to help you complete your first digital detox if you’re feeling lost and want some direction on how to get started.

Conclusion

Completing a digital detox can be very beneficial to anyone who may be wanting a break from everyday use of technology. The positive effects are countless and can help improve your life immensely. Not only will your headspace become clearer, but your relationships will likely improve and so will your productivity in other areas of your life.

Even though technology has improved our quality of life in most areas, it is wise to take a break every once in a while and have a reset.