We live in a crazy world where we can't seem to stay away from the great online. Connected screens are everywhere, from storefronts to our pockets and appliances. We can't escape emails, notifications, breaking news, and special offers valid for 24 hours only! Responding to all these stimuli can instantly push our brain into overdrive.
Sometimes, stepping back from this constant digital assault against our senses seems like a good idea.
Digital Overload
“Digital Overload” is a state where we are overwhelmed by the sheer amount of digital information and interaction we are exposed to. This is the result of the constant use of connected devices. Our brain is constantly bombarded by notifications, unread signs, ads, special offers, game updates from online casinos, and everything else.
If this sounds like another normal day for you, be warned: digital overload can lead to symptoms like stress, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. In the long run, it can cause anxiety, sleep disturbances, and your inability to disconnect and relax.
Think of your daily routine. If it sounds much like what we described above, you may need a “digital detox.”
What Is a “Digital Detox”
A digital detox is what it sounds like. In a nutshell, it's a break from digital devices. It is about stepping back from the constant stream of notifications and, more importantly, the compulsion to scroll through endless feeds constantly.
A digital detox aims to reduce the adverse effects of digital overload.
Do We Need It?
Even if we don't realize it, we need a digital detox. Many of us are glued to our screens during work hours, staring at spreadsheets, emails, and presentations. Then we head home, mindlessly scrolling through social media on the train or bus. Then at home, we turn on the news or binge-watch a streaming series while continuing to scroll on our phones. We only stop when we're sleeping.
While this may seem normal nowadays, it shouldn't be. This constant exposure to distraction and breaking news makes us more stressed, anxious, and disconnected from our real lives.
What Are The Benefits of a Digital Detox?
There are more than enough:
- It reduces stress and anxiety (except maybe for FOMO)
- It improves our sleep
- It can encourage more meaningful relationships
- It can enhance our productivity
- It helps us relax
How to Digitally Detox?
The ideal digital detox is running away from the civilized world, even if only for a while, to a place where the only alarm is the rising sun and the only noise you hear is the birds singing in the trees. But this is not realistic in today's hustle and grind culture.
But you can reduce the time you spend exposed to digital stimuli by:
- Setting boundaries: Designate a time of the day or week when you stay away from connected devices.
- Find offline hobbies that don't require an internet connection - think cooking, reading, spending time in nature
- Create tech-free zones: Designate areas like the bedroom or the reading nook where digital devices are not allowed
- Use a traditional alarm clock so you won't have to start your day by staring at your phone
- Keep your phone and notifications clean by uninstalling apps that you don't use and carefully selecting which apps are allowed to send you notifications
- Use your digital devices with intention instead of constantly scrolling on your phone. Make conscious choices about when and how you use technology.
But Should You?
If you feel overwhelmed by the digital world, you should have a digital detox - or at least try to reduce the role of devices in your life. This will allow you to reevaluate your relationship with technology and find a place for it. Of course, being disconnected sounds scary at first - but the benefits for your mental health and personal relationships make it worth the effort. After all, a digital detox is not about giving up on technology completely - it's about finding a healthy balance between your digital life and real life. Take breaks from your device use to improve your well-being and rediscover the joy of living in the moment.
