Need Time Off Tech? Here Are 10 Ways to Combat Technology Overuse
As someone who thrives in a digital age, you know that technology is an important part of your daily life. Sometimes technology benefits us, and other times - it does the opposite. But one thing is for sure - too much use of technology can lead to burnout (even for the most hardworking and motivated solopreneur). How can you have a digital detox? Let’s explore ten ways below.
1. Put your phone away at lunch
Whether you're eating outside or staying in the office, put your phone on silent mode and in the drawer. By doing this, you get to focus on your food and also give yourself more time to take a nap.
2. Choose outdoor activities over technology
During the weekends or on your vacant time, opt to go out for a jog or spend time with your family instead of watching Netflix.
3. Set a "no-tech zone"
In your home, set some places where gadgets aren’t allowed like the dinner table, toilet, and the bedroom. This is one way to separate yourself from the burden and bad news of the outside world and enjoy the peace and comfort of your abode.
4. Do your chores
If it's not possible to enjoy the great outdoors due to the weather, indulge in some meaningful activities at home. Cleaning your house is one of the best options. Who knows? Your place might be in need of some decluttering.
5. Quit relying on web searches too much
One way to avoid technology overuse is to not use it at all. Hiking to your local peak? Ask for directions manually or use a map. Searching for inspirations and instructions? Rely on your instinct and ingenuity. You might discover that you’re smarter than you think with skills that nobody else possess.
6. The silent airplane
This is the best way to keep you from using your phone and relax - turn on airplane mode and keep it silent (no vibrations as well). Even offline applications can disturb a person with notifications. This also applies during office hours, meeting with partners, and attending to customers. This way you can focus on work alone and not give time to think about non-work related stuff.
7. Bet with a friend or family on who can use technology the least
This is a fun way to challenge yourself and someone else into minimizing device use! Go for a hundred dollar bet. You might lose money but at least you did your best to minimize tech use and in the endeavor, you’ve already detoxified yourself from digital use.
8. Don’t be available 24/7
Aside from a no-tech zone, set a no-contact period. Home time is your time and not office time. Do clients or business partners disturb you in your personal time? Go for the silent airplane treatment and resume tomorrow.
Read more: 9 Practices That Will Help You Quickly Destress in the Middle of a Busy Work Day
9. Moderate and schedule social media use
Social media is useful for keeping up with friends, families, and colleagues. But too much time spent on it can lead to procrastination. Schedule and limit your social media use, like for say, an hour a day during the evening just to keep up with missed happenings. Or also, an hour in the morning so that you don’t get to check your phone most of the day.
10. Wake up tech-free
It’s so hard to get off your bed in the mornings when the first thing you do is pick up your phone and scroll through Facebook just to see something that can cause bad mood. Leave your phone across the room before going to sleep.
Solopreneurs need more focus to achieve their business goals. One of the greatest hindrances to success is procrastination as a result technology overuse. Start by catching yourself mindlessly checking your phone. I hope the tips above help!