We live in a technology-driven world where we feel constantly plugged in, for better or worse. Technology has added a lot of ease, convenience, and even happiness to our lives, but it has also disconnected us in ways that impact our well-being. Experts suggest setting healthy boundaries for technology use; knowing when it is needed and when it’s time to take a break. There’s more to life than eating, sleeping, and screens! Here are some benefits of unplugging and reconnecting
- Quality of life tends to improve as we spend more time with family and friends, hobbies, exercise, and even cooking more often with the time freed up.
- Work burnout and stress decrease when we spend less time checking work email after hours and more time relaxing. This leads to a refreshed, happier workforce.
- Better sleep occurs when keeping electronics, including your phone, away from the bedroom. Blue light from phone and computer screens can make it difficult to fall asleep while notifications during the night can interrupt you sleep patterns.
- Swapping technology for in-person communications improves interpersonal relationships and makes us feel more connected. Technology provides fast and convenient communications, but it also removes body language, tone, and other signals that help us understand one another and form bonds. Better communication = better relationships = more happiness = less stress!
- Research shows that overuse of social media can create or exacerbate psychological disorders. Scrolling your feed frequently can increase feelings of jealousy, loneliness, depression, or fear of missing out as you compare your life and accomplishments to others. Unplugging can improve self-reflection and keep our reality in check while allowing us to live in the present.