7 Ways to Digitally Detox in the New Year
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to do better with technology this year, you’re not alone. Our overabundance of screen time, information overload, and social media everything have become a new normal. But it doesn’t have to be this way — it’s possible for us to be digitally connected without being overwhelmed by it.
That’s why no matter where you are on your start to the year, I’m holding the intention that you master the art of living a whole, integrated, and fulfilling personal and professional life, and learn to break free from digital distractions.
With that in mind, I’m sharing a few quick tips for digital decluttering and detoxing and using technology with more intention this year.
Take an audit of your digital life. Take a few moments to pause, reflect, and ask: how is digital technology adding value to my life? How is it getting in my way? What’s my intention for how I would like to use digital technology in my life this year?
Take a break from optional technology for the next 30 days. So, if Instagram or your favorite news site isn’t mission critical, take a break from it for the next few weeks.
Buy a real alarm clock. If your smartwatch or phone is getting in the way of a good night’s rest, it’s time to buy a real alarm clock (yes, they still make them!) and charge your devices outside your bedroom.
Sleep more. Yes, you read that right. Working more and being constantly connected does not make us more productive or informed. In fact, research shows that consistently overworking diminishes productivity. Taking breaks and getting a good night’s sleep actually makes you more productive. There’s also growing concern that being constantly distracted by our screens is impacting the quality of our attention.
Make a list of what really matters and what you really want to be doing with your time. Then make a commitment to do more of those things (e.g. more time with family or going to the gym).
Be accountable. The most long-lasting changes we experience in life happen when we have a strong support and accountability system in place. If you’re serious about getting your digital house in order and staying on track, find someone who can join you on the journey and help hold you accountable.
Start over. Decluttering isn’t simply about taking a break. It’s about creating a clean slate and examining what really matters to you and whether the way you’re using technology aligns with it. It’s about asking yourself hard questions like: what am I willing to miss out on? Am I willing to give up a digital tool or practice that isn’t aligned with what’s really important to me at this season in my life?
How is digital technology is getting in your way? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Meico is a speaker and trainer on mindfulness, technology, and productivity at Mindful Techie. Follow him on social media at @amindfultechie. Learn more about living a balance and intentional life in a digital world at mindfultechie.com.