Technology Detox: Four Simple Ways to Show Your Phone Who’s Boss

Four Simple Ways to Show Your Phone Who’s Boss

As important as technology has become to our personal and professional lives, letting every ding, beep, flash and alert distract us gives our digital devices too much control.

Fortunately, simple changes to our daily routines can ensure that our tech tools are helping and not hindering our mental and physical health.

Begin with a break

Before you reach for your phone first thing in the morning (or after you’ve turned off its alarm), take five minutes to focus on yourself, not your screen. Think about or plan your day, greet your family members, step outside, or take a moment to meditate. Make sure that you, and not your phone, are setting the tone for your day.
It’s your time, not your phone’s

It’s common for the alert or reminder function on your phone to become more foe than friend, distracting instead of directing. Instead of checking notifications as they come up, try scheduling specific time in your day to check your email and messages. This helps you focus, which can help you be more efficient than reacting to each alert.
Use your meals to consume food, not content

Staring at your screen while eating may not only lead to overeating or indigestion, it can prevent you from enjoying one of life’s best simple pleasures: appreciating your food. By choosing one meal a day without your phone, you can develop mindful eating habits. Even better, you can get a break from the world and connect with those around you.

Living Well: Healthy Eating at Work
End with the right energy

Your phone emits “blue light,” which can decrease your melatonin (sleep hormone) production. This can have a harmful impact on your sleep duration and quality. If you give yourself a break from your phone for at least two to three hours before you go to bed, you may find it easier to fall asleep and will enjoy better rest.