In today’s world, it’s easy to stay constantly connected. In fact, according to a Nielsen study, adults in the U.S. spend nearly 11 hours daily watching, reading and interacting with online content. Technology does have its perks, especially as an online student since you get to enjoy:
- Flexibility
- Increased course variety
- Customized education
- Immediate feedback
- Ready access to studying material
- Reduced costs
However, constant connectivity can start to feel overwhelming. That’s why you may need to set aside time away from your devices and social media websites through a digital detox. Here’s an extensive insight into the benefits of digital detox and how to do it.
Benefits of Digital Detox
Are you constantly checking for social media updates or scrolling through your smartphone as chunks of time slip away? It may be difficult to remember a period when your tablet or phone wasn’t an extension of yourself. Despite the clear pros of this digital age, they do come at a cost. These negatives include:
- Information overload: The never-ending stream of news can be quite overwhelming, resulting in anxiety and reduced productivity.
- Privacy concerns: Without proper security, technology threatens your privacy, considering you showcase numerous aspects of your life online.
- Reduced attention spans: As you try to consume all the online content, you end up reducing your attention span and productivity.
By learning how to take a digital detox, you get to reconnect with the real world around you and enjoy:
- Reduced eye strain
- Improved focus
- Free time to indulge in healthy hobbies
- Improved sleep
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Enhanced creativity and problem-solving
How to Do a Digital Detox
A detox is a healthy way to manage your digital habits. Some of the steps you can take to perform a digital detox include the following:
Turning Off Your Push Notifications
Although constant reminders for a new text, email or inbox have their purpose, they may pressure you to reply immediately. Turning off reminders allows you to respond when available instead of constantly interrupting your online studying.
Engage in Offline Activities
Try planning and participating in hobbies or outdoor activities with your friends and family. Whether it’s swimming, bike riding or camping, engage in fun excursions that distract you from technology.
Designating Tech-Free Hours
Setting aside time to be free from your smart device as an online student is likely the hardest to do. However, it is the most immediately effective way to perform a digital detox. You can designate these tech breaks during meals and bedtime as you continue building newer and better habits.
Using Productivity Apps
Although a digital detox entails reducing your screen time, there are productivity apps that help you organize your academic tasks. Utilizing these apps can optimize your overall study routine and improve time management. Additionally, you can delete or restrict apps that are constantly distracting you.
Finding the right balance between tech and your education is crucial to optimizing your studies. A digital detox limits your screen time distractions and enhances your overall well-being. With these tips, you can set up a structured plan and achieve academic success as an online MedCerts student.
