Taking a Break from Technology

Several things get in the way of maintaining that feeling of inner peace all day long — and one of the biggest culprits is technology.

Distractions are abundant in our world — and our laptops, tablets, and smartphones are significant contributors to those distractions. When we hear a ring, or feel our phones vibrate, we immediately reach over and grab our smartphones. Or, when feeling bored, we tend to hop on our phones to mindlessly search the web, play games or cruise through social media feeds.

This counters productivity if we’re trying to get work done that requires real thinking; it can also disrupt moments of connecting with our family, friends, and authentic selves.

While technology is an excellent tool to help us with work and stay in touch with loved ones far from home, it can also cause a significant distraction. Taking a break from technology may seem easy, but it can be a challenging task. Give these five ways to take a break from technology a try to minimize distraction and stay more present and focused.

Schedule a Break

Designate device-free times to stay in the moment. Here are some ideas:

  • Take a walk every day without your phone
  • Choose one day a week to turn off all technology (or try a timeframe like 2 pm to 8 pm.)
  • Schedule the “Do Not Disturb” feature every evening from 8pm to 7am.
  • Turn on airplane mode for a couple hours a day.

Turn Off Your Phone

Our phones are our cameras, music players, calculators, task reminders. We rely on it more than we may think. Give this a go for a couple hours a day, just turn off your phone.

Nix the Notifications

The constant buzzing with a notification is an instant draw to your phone. Turn off all notifications, so there’s no distraction if someone texts you, comments on a photo from social media, or update on the game that evening.

Set-up a Device-Free Zone

Designate one or two areas in your home that devices are not allowed and stick to the rule. Once you’re used to it, you’ll find yourself enjoying those places most in your home. Good trial zones could be the bedroom, backyard, living room, or kitchen table.

At first, it may feel weird taking a break from technology. But as you continue one or all of these hacks, you’ll start to notice that you rely less on technology and are more present in your daily life.

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