NOWADAYS, it is evident that technology has become essential for most people since it provides us convenience for our daily activities and livelihood. Since the pandemic started, we have become more dependent on it. We use technology to shop, socialize, study, work, play games, stay updated, and more likely, to distract ourselves from boredom. But, sometimes, we tend to overuse it and stay on social media to the point that we spend hours on it and get shocked by our screen time. Here are some of the ways on how we can detoxify ourselves from social media and how we can help make it a better space for everyone.

One App at a Time

There are times that we use two or more devices simultaneously. Although multitasking is good for accomplishing several tasks, usage of more than one device can easily make us tired. We tend to jump back and forth from one application to another and it divides our attention. This does not only drain our energy, but it also poses negative effects on our sleeping pattern and health.

Remember to Fact Check

When we see informative news, we sometimes feel the need to share it even though we are not sure of its accuracy. Fact-checking is the way for you to help spread news that is legitimate. Rely on credible news sites and assess the data to ensure its accuracy. News and information are meant to be truthful. Awareness of the right information is great as it prevents the dissemination of false information.

Device Distancing

Nowadays, as we are practicing social distancing to avoid the virus, we can practice it on our phones as well. As much as possible, keep your phone away from you, the moment you wake up and go to sleep. To replace this habit, if you have a bedside table, instead of putting your phone near you, place it far away from you; the less access to it, the less likely you are going to use social media for hours. Start placing things on your bedside table that will introduce you to another habit, like reading books. If you are using your phone as an alarm clock, it is best to get an actual one. This can make you less likely to use your phone in the morning and it will also give you space to think of what you want to accomplish for the day and reflect on it after.

Try to Reach Out

To have better communications with people, try sending voice messages or calling them. Connect in a way that it does not feel like you are interacting with technology. Add value to your relationship. Voice messages and calls (even video calls) provide us a clearer understanding of the expressions and tones of voices heard, it puts us on the same page as the people we’re talking to.

Protect your Identity

Remember that everything you share and post online is never private despite applications that have strong privacy settings. You have to be vigilant and careful before sharing and posting anything online. Never post your address, phone number, bank details or any information that may be a hint for your passwords or log in credentials on sites that are suspicious. This is hot in the eyes of the hackers so make sure you are cautious enough because you don’t want to be a victim of identity theft. Avoid sharing private information with others who you think are not trustworthy enough because there is no guarantee that your information will always be in good hands in the virtual world.

Clean Feed Equates to Clean Contacts

When you make social media accounts, you also make online friends; but, it doesn’t have to be permanent. If you find someone who spreads negativity and uncomfortable content that doesn’t make you feel good about yourself or makes you feel unsafe, clear them out of your contacts. If someone is constantly bothering you, social media allows you to block or mute them. Unfriending is not immature if it gives you peace of mind and helps you do things better. 

Remember, our lives do not only revolve online although it is necessary for others because their livelihood depends on it. Keeping the balance in using social media and doing things separated from the digital world are the key ingredients to living a healthy life. Utilization of technology is good, but don’t forget that you also have a real life on your own, use it wisely.