Tips to Effective Digital Detox

  By: ANGIE CHUI

In the age of technology, people stay connected through different communication and social platforms. This was heightened even more during the pandemic when health restrictions kept people from socializing face to face.

Unfortunately, the digital world, with all its conveniences has also introduced a myriad of new challenges for users that affect mental health such as additional stress, abnormal work/life balance, pressures from social comparisons, and even a dependency on public opinion.

But now that the pandemic is reaching its tail end, there are more reconnect with your loved ones outside of the social media realm.

If you are having trouble disconnecting online to connect in real life, here are some tips to help you along.

•   Do it gradually.   Cut back on the time you spend on social media and set timers and alarms to help you keep track of time.
•   Set a normal work schedule.   One of the challenges of remote work set up is the lack of limitations on work hours. Set a reasonable time to stop checking emails and answering work related requests.
•   Engage in offline activities.   Take part in hobbies and activities that you have to do offline. Start doing arts and crafts. Have a coffee date with your friends. Have a family game night.
•   Concentrate on your interactions.   Leave your phone behind and focus on your conversations and interactions. Having a phone sometimes lowers your empathy levels and decreases the quality of your conversations, according to a study.
•   Get help.   Ask your family and friends for help in doing digital detox if you feel like you will succumb to temptation at any time. Having an extra eye to keep you in check does wonders to reach succes