Welcome back to Prosperaptitude. If you’ve ever wanted to become a better version of yourself, you’re in the right place!

A Digital Detox Discourse

Do you find yourself constantly staring at a screen of some sort? It’s easy to get sucked into the digital realm because we have tech everywhere. From our phones, tablets, and laptops, the glow of all-knowing screens beckons.

The Watchful Monitors

Why should you care if you’re looking at screens all the time? Here are some disadvantages of constantly hiding behind glowing monitors:

1. Shorter attention span- did you know that as a video editor, I try not to have a still-frame shot for much longer than 4 seconds? This is what our attention spans have been reduced to. If you watch old black-and-white movies, you will notice that the pacing is much, much slower. However, I am happy to inform you that the pendulum, as far as video production, is starting to swing back the other way.

2. Information overload- how many tabs do you have open right now? Right now, I have eight including this one where I am typing. Too much information causes us to attempt to process information faster. Sometimes, this speed comes at a cost. True understanding of a subject is not truly achieved, and we can often lose focus.

3. Security issues- the more time you spend online, the higher the probability that you could encounter security issues. However, a parallel can be drawn to the offline world. If you are constantly spending time in certain locations, you become predictable and can easily be tracked. Invest in a virtual private network (VPN), if possible.

4. Depression/anxiety- not only does excessive screen time affect your sleep patterns, but it can increase the risk of depression and/or anxiety. Eye strain and FOMO syndrome (fear of missing out) can also develop.

Should You Detox?

If you’re already thinking that you might be spending too much time in front of a screen, you might be ready for a detox. Here are some other signs that indicate you should consider detoxing:

1. If your devices interrupt your sleep.

2. If you feel depressed, anxious, or stressed after looking at screens all day.

3. If you feel the constant need to check your phone.

How to Start a Detox

Technology and the speed of the world have made it almost impossible to function without screens, but that doesn’t mean you can’t limit this. Consider implementing some of these simple fixes:

A) Focusing on only one (type of) screen at a time. This means trying not to look at your phone, tablet, and laptop simultaneously. If you’re working on your computer, focus on the computer.

B) Designate your bedroom as a tech-free zone. The blue light from our screens tend to interfere with sleep. If you must read something before bed, consider…

C) Bringing back paper media. Remember the feel and the smell of a good book? They were multi-sensory gifts, and they’re still out there. But if the ding of your phone calls out to you…

D) Turn off push notifications. You don’t have to turn them all off. Maybe turn off only the ones that won’t get you fired. Social media isn’t truly important unless you work in the field or use it for research.

E) Don’t bring your phone to dinner (or any meal). This will help be more present and enhance your personal relationships. Eat, talk, and socialize without the temptation of looking at your phone.

F) Notify friends and family. If you’re someone who is constantly connected, people might get worried if you’re not responding as quickly. Let them know what you’re attempting.

And finally, consider going for a walk without earpods or watching a video. Walk or run to the sound of nature.

Reconnect.

Eventually, you’ll recognize a calmness like you’re running into an old friend.

The writer has two graduate degrees and a yellow belt with Lean Six Sigma.

Please visit our sponsors:

References: