Clár ábhair
For many of us, electronic devices become like an extension of the body, and it becomes increasingly difficult to disconnect from the Web. If, having come to the store or to work, we find that we left the smartphone at home, then we often experience quite palpable anxiety. Anxiety and depression specialist Tina Arnoldi on what to do about it.
Most of us most likely understand that spending too much time on the Internet is harmful. Having become an essential part of modern culture, information technology and communications can have a negative impact on our mental health and well-being.
But, alas, this habit, like any other, is often very difficult to get rid of.
If you realize that gadgets and the Internet have become too important in your life, these five steps will help you gradually overcome your addiction.
1. Don’t start the day by checking your email.
As soon as you wake up, you should not immediately open the letter about the next work meeting or read the reminder of the overdue payment — this way you risk ruining your mood before the day starts. Instead, spend the morning calm and relaxed, such as walking, doing yoga, or meditating.
2. Leave your phone in the car
Personally, I can afford to miss some calls and letters while I walk around the supermarket. There are no responsibilities in my life that would require me to be in touch 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
I understand that your situation may be different — and yet, leaving your smartphone in the car, you save yourself the temptation to start mindlessly flipping pages on the Internet while standing in line. Instead, you will be able to observe what is happening around and, who knows, maybe even chat with new people.
3. Block your accounts
I can imagine the look on your face! The very idea that you can not go on social networks every day may seem wild to many. But, note, I advise you not to delete, but to block pages and accounts — you can activate them again when the need arises.
I often block my profile on Facebook (an extremist organization banned in Russia) for the reason that it does not bring me any benefit. The time spent on this site does not bring me closer to the realization of my goals, but only allows me to escape from reality. At the same time, reading comments and entries often only spoils the mood. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to fill my head with negativity and unnecessary information.
4. Use special programs
Many tools and apps help you control the time you spend online. They can, for example, disconnect you from the Web for a specified period of time and prevent you from accessing certain sites.
It won’t solve the problem on its own, but such programs can be invaluable help while you’re trying to change your habits.
5. Feasacht a chleachtadh
Try to pay attention to what feelings and experiences you experience using modern technologies. Anxiety and irritation? Or maybe fatigue and even hostility?
Here are a few questions to ask yourself from time to time. You can even write them down and hang a piece of paper next to your computer to check on yourself throughout the day.
- Why am I browsing these sites?
- What do I hope to gain from this?
- What emotions does what I read on the Internet evoke in me?
- Am I moving towards the goals I want to achieve?
- What am I not able to do because I spend so much time on the Internet?
The Internet gives us access to an endless stream of other people’s thoughts, ideas and knowledge, a large part of which annoys us and prevents us from thinking creatively. To rest and recover, we need peace and quiet.
Take just a few minutes to consider your habits associated with the use of modern technology. I’m sure you’ll find something worth changing. Even small steps can make a big difference in your mental state and productivity.