As I sit down to write this blog post, ironically my phone is within arm's reach. Nowadays we are all so used to having our phones with us wherever we go, that the thought of forgetting it at home stresses us out. My phone is the first thing I reach for in the morning when I wake up and it's the last thing I look at before I fall asleep. I admit, over the years I've become more addicted to my phone. Can we blame it on the ever-changing world of social media and the idea of having to stay connected at all times? Especially when we are combining our lifestyle with social media? Not at all. This falls all on us not being disciplined enough with ourselves to know when to disconnect.
Now I know people need to stay connected for their jobs etc, and I'm not saying we should all throw our phones away and give up Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Heck, I love all the opportunities the internet and social media has given me. I'm talking about finding a healthy balance and trying to live more in the moment. Last week my dad told me about a Polish community picnic that was happening nearby. Basically, people in the Polish community come together and mingle, enjoy live music, and eat delicious Polish food. I haven't been to one of these since I was fifteen, so I was really looking forward to going. Even though I brought my phone with me, I told myself I wouldn't be distracted by it and I consciously made an effort not to be on it. And I wasn't.
I decided to write this post because I've thought about all the times I've been distracted by my phone. From Chase trying to talk to me about something and I totally tune him out, to watching a movie and having my phone on my lap, while I swipe here and there in between scenes. Or having my phone with me while I eat, propped up on the table watching a YouTube Video. Many times my phone has gotten me in trouble on the road, something I'm not proud of. My phone is basically with me every second of every day. I personally think that when your phone becomes too much of a distraction in your personal and work life, that's when it's time to make some changes.
Tips To Help You Disconnect
I recently discovered this app called BreakFree, (availble for Android and iPhone) which is designed to help you monitor your phone usage. I downloaded it to help make better use of my time and be more productive throughout the day. It also shows you how many times a day you unlock your phone. Yesterday, I unlocked my phone 140 separate times. Yikes! My goal now is to stay under 100.
Another thing I found that helped is turning off all push notifications from email and social media apps. I even started turning off my phone when I would get into my car to avoid being tempted to look at it when I get to a red light. My next step will be to leave my phone outside of the bedroom at night so I won't scroll and tap an hour before bed. It's quite embarrassing, but hey, I can't be the only one, right!?
Ultimately, I don't want to start my day by reaching for my phone first, instead, I want to get my workout in, get ready, and prepare a healthy breakfast. Anyone else all about finding a healthy balance with their phone? I'd love to know your thoughts below!
