By Emily Squance, Blogger
Technology has created jobs, kick-started businesses and even improved education for many students. It has changed the way we connect and interact with one another, affecting the quality of information we consume. Technology has made it possible to reach a wide audience, thus giving us access to information from all types of sources around the world. It creates a direct line of communication with one click, reinventing the way we communicate. But what happens when that constant communication becomes too overwhelming? Here’s how to prevent yourself from technology burnout:
Know Your Limits
Almost all of us have opened our phones to respond to a text, only to see an hour pass as we scroll through social media. Know when to limit yourself and your screen time. It’s easy to get carried away with social media, but it’s important to put yourself first. Try to keep track of your screen time (which can typically be found in the settings on your phone) and map ways to decrease your screen time.
Go Outside
Nature can be a good way to unplug and enjoy the life around you. The good thing about nature: it’s always available. Whether it’s taking a walk in the park or taking a hike with some friends, there are many options available. Schedule your outside time in with your other priorities — you’ll have less time to be distracted by technology.
Going outside can also help boost your creativity to engage your attention in a much more pleasant way. Taking a break can often increase productivity. By allowing your mind to reset, you’re able to look at things through a new lens. The outdoors can provide inspiration, time to reflect and allow you to unwind.
Unplugging Isn’t Disconnecting
It’s very important to remember that finding the perfect balance doesn’t mean going cold turkey on technology. It’s okay to be connected and involved in the lives of people not physically with you, but you should be equally connected with yourself. Taking a break from technology not only recharges your battery, but it also can help you reconnect with reality.
How to Break Away
Many everyday activities involve technology, so how can you take a break when it’s everywhere? Setting a schedule for yourself is important but maintaining that schedule consistently is vital. It’s very easy to lose track of time when using technology; try setting a timer for yourself so you know when it’s time to break away. Start off with being tech-free for an hour, if you struggle with temptations setting your phone on “do not disturb” ma help.
Much Needed Mental Break
Social media plays a big role in how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. It can implement unrealistic expectations, causing some people to be unsatisfied with their lives or their images. Constantly watching what others do on social media can do more harm than good. Higher social media usage can be seen to directly coordinate with low self-esteem, leading to someone caring more about the opinions and feelings of others rather than their own. Sometimes we are drawn to virtual relationships more to avoid our real-life ones. Taking the time to log off social media can potentially better your understanding of not only yourself but the people around you.
Technology can be a vital resource, with an everlasting power on society. But, it is important to know when you need to take a break and how to limit yourself. Unplugging from technology can add depth to the relationships around you, causing you to feel more connected with your environment and less connected with the Internet.
Comments