Digital devices have become social life savers. With social distancing rules still in place, our phones and gadgets have become the only method we can use to connect with our loved ones. During the past two months, video conferencing tools have seen more than 62 million downloads and a high percentage of users have increased their screen time.
Such statistics make one wonder… what if this digital dependence is leaving trails of negativity behind? We’re about to explore why a digital detox in the era of COVID-19 is critical to an improved way of life.
BECOME MORE CALM
During days when the media is firing away news around the clock, it is indisputable that one may become overwhelmed with the sheer number of updates. Pressure levels will heighten with distressing announcements. Bring your social media absorption to a halt to alleviate stress levels.
BECOME MORE PRODUCTIVE
Squandering time scrolling through social media feeds and online portals is a time waster. Rather than letting yourself become idle, focus your energy into actions that provide more fulfilment.
BECOME MORE HEALTHY
Staring at online screens for lengthy periods will degenerate your eyesight. Researchers have discovered that mobile screens expose our eyes to harmful blue-light that damages the eye’s retina. Straining your neck by tilting it forward might cause poor posture.
BECOME MORE CONTENT
Comparing oneself with others will stop you focusing on what truly matters – the beauty of yourself. The concept of perfection is just a fantasy. News and photos shared online are curated, especially to show what’s good. Reality is far different than that. Give your mental health a boost and focus on what makes you really great and keep your thoughts away from someone’s new car, trip abroad, fancy clothes and the rest.
BECOME LESS ADDICTED
If you spend the majority of the day stuck online, there’s no denying your social presence is becoming an addiction. Using your phone during dinner, and sacrificing hours of sleep shows that the phone is becoming more important to you than anything else. Unknowingly, you might be putting yourself and your relations with others in danger.
BECOME MORE POLITE
It is rude to use the phone during conversations, at the cinema or during important events. It can be annoying for those around you as it might make them feel less important. Discipline yourself by keeping your phone away whenever is necessary.
BECOME MORE ACTIVE
Being fixed to a screen might turn you into a coach potato, encouraging obesity and lack of physical exercise. Such behaviour is becoming noticeable in children, who are growing accustomed to a multitude of devices which are being swapped with sports and physical leisure time. Adopt an active lifestyle by allocating at least an hour a day to your physical well-being.
BECOME A PROBLEM SOLVER
Our reliance on Google to answer all our questions is making our brains lazy. Dedicate time to listen and undertake your own analysis.
DISCOVER NEW HOBBIES
As you’re spending more time at home, dedicate your free time to increase the possibility to grow yourself and improve your skills; whether that is reading, painting, dancing, cooking and much more.
ADOPT A HEALTHY BALANCE
There is no need to cut technology out of your life completely. Learn how to find a good balance between on-screen and off-screen time, to build a stronger and better you.