Some time ago I recall doing a piece titled ‘Unplug‘, which focused on the role of social media. This time I want to take a look at the role of our devices like our phones, laptops and tablets.

For most of us, we use our phones every day, whether it’s for talking with others, looking up information, or entertaining ourselves during the day.

When your eyes aren’t glued to your phone, you are able to look up and notice different things around you.

Does your phone usage become especially obvious at social gatherings? When the conversations died down and the silence becomes uncomfortable, it’s easy to flip through your phone as a distraction.

Here’s what you need to know:
1. You don’t need to be available every second of the day.The vast majority of us are in positions that allow us to turn off our phones from time to time.Unless you’re in a job that requires being on call, you can step away and give yourself time off from electronic devices.I used to worry that if I didn’t reply to someone’s instant message, the person would become impatient or I would miss out on an opportunity.I felt myself getting stressed when I forced myself to constantly check for updates.But now I know that if I wait to get back to someone, it isn’t the end of the world.It can actually help me develop clarity in how to respond and also gives me peace of mind. I’ve learned to appreciate the present moment more now.

2. Phones are made for communicating with people, not avoiding them.Have you ever tried speaking with someone, only for the person to mumble a response while staring at a phone or whatever device?Or maybe you found yourself so preoccupied with your phone that you didn’t notice anyone around you?It’s interesting how the urge to fiddle with our phones strikes us when we’re put in a strange situation.Like being in a room with new people or running into someone we haven’t seen for a while.If you find an urge to use your phone during these situations, ask yourself, why do you feel more comfortable using your phone at certain moments?Does it have to do with something urgent, or an effort to avoid feelings of discomfort?Discomfort can be a sign of growth.
It’s an opportunity for you to connect with others and learn something new.
To be continued next week.

#FreshTake – Boost your energy to follow your dreams – Part 3