In 2018, screens are essentially an extension of our bodies. Phones, tablets, and laptops are our source for communication, learning, and completing daily tasks. While technology is an asset for productivity, too much of it can take away from off-screen joys like face-to-face communication, DIY projects, and independent thinking.
Therefore, it’s important to limit your screen time so you can Live Your Bliss peacefully and without interruption.
Here’s how you can get started:
1. Create Distance
The first and most obvious step is to add distance between you and your screen. Where you place your phone has a huge impact on how often you use it. If you’re catching up with a friend at a restaurant, zip your phone up in a purse pocket instead of leaving it on the table. Your pal will appreciate your full attention as well as the extra table space for one more appetizer. Before you hit the hay, place your device in a drawer instead of the nightstand. Many people think the alarm clock app and access to endless pre-sleep scrolling warrants a cell phone in the bedroom. In reality, using your phone triggers your brain to think of productivity, hindering your sleep. Also, according to the National Sleep Foundation, the blue light your phone emits negatively affects melatonin levels. It’s best to turn your phone off, invest in an old school alarm clock, and crack open a book before you doze off.
2. Be Realistic & Set Parameters
In setting any goals, it’s important to remain realistic to avoid failure and a spiraling affect of subsequent ones. Technology helps us in our jobs, relationships, and connectivity with news and knowledge. Despite its negative aspects, it’s truly an amazing innovation. With that said, it’s important to prioritize when you personally need technology and when you don’t. For example, if your job requires you to be available off-hours on certain days, keep your phone on loud in a drawer when disconnecting. When possible, let your boss or manager know you’ll be unavailable certain nights, and then treat yourself to a blissful evening of uninterrupted relaxation. If you’re expecting an important call when you’re with a friend, allow yourself access to your phone, but remember to put it away once the call is done. Finally, don’t miss out on that Instagrammable moment; simply snap a picture of that sunset or Nutella-stuffed donut and put your phone away afterwards. You can write up of a snappy caption and add filters later.
3. Utilize Technology To Silence Technology
It may sound counterintuitive to use technology during a detox, but it’s one of the best things you can do to limit your screen time. Your first order of business should be to turn off notifications for apps. The less alerts you receive, the less likely it is you’ll pick up your phone and mindlessly scroll. Next, discover helpful tools like Flipd, an application that counts the minutes you spend away from your phone, pushing you to reach your goals. Finally, we’re all familiar with the “quick” Google search that results in an hour of miscellaneous online activity. To avoid this Internet hole, invest in a smart speaker such as Alexa or Google Home. With the help of these technologies, you an ask your queries with zero screen time and focus on the task at hand.
Are you interested in Living Your Bliss with Lincoln Property Company? Contact us today to find a community near you.