So many people these days are letting valuable time slip away as they stare endlessly at their smartphone screens. Unfortunately, this constant connection can take a toll on your quality of life and overload your senses. Taking a break from your social media apps and time away from your screens is essential. This holiday season might be the ideal time for a digital detox.

A digital detox is a period for an individual to avoid their devices and social media sites. Detoxing includes smartphones, computers, tablets, and televisions. The detox gives you time to experience real life without distractions. It is a time to reconnect with people personally instead of through a screen. Give yourself a lovely holiday present with a digital detox.

The Negative Side of the Digital World

Technology has numerous benefits. It changes jobs, increases productivity, improves transparency, and makes life easier. Unfortunately, these benefits come at a cost. There are negatives to the digital world, and here is a sampling:

• Information overload. The state of being overwhelmed by a never-ending stream of news and communication.
• Jobs at stake. Technology improves, making many jobs redundant.
• Increased multitasking. Although technology encourages multi-tasking, it might not be best for our brains.
• Shorter attention spans. Our attention spans are shortening as we attempt to consume this information. The result is less focus and reduced productivity.
• Privacy issues. From targeted marketing to stolen identity, technology threatens privacy.

Are You Ready for a Digital Detox?

If the devices are interfering with your other priorities, it is time to cut back on your digital life and focus on the natural world again. Going “cold turkey” and cutting yourself off totally might not be ideal, so take small steps and reap the benefits:

• Create a plan. If you are on your phone too much, consider setting times for checking your email, messages, and notifications. Too much social media? Take a break from those sites for a day or a week and see how you feel.
• Set goals. Make your plan specific. Perhaps a device-free meal with family or take a week’s break from Instagram or Snapchat. You can turn off notifications, which can help minimize the urge to check your device constantly.
• Notify family and friends. Let your family and friends know your intentions. Tell them not to count on immediate responses from you. This support is a big help for trying to live a less-connected life.
• Evaluate and consider making changes permanently. Once you try a digital detox, step back and assess how you feel. Are you less stressed? Has it improved your productivity or sleep? Are you more focused? Do you have more time? Once you experience the benefits, it will be easier to continue to practice what makes you feel better.

The team at Exact Staff is ready to find you a challenging, high-paying, and rewarding career opportunity.