Problem: Technology dependency vs. real life—I can't find the balance

Name: Emily Thompson
Occupation: Graphic Designer
Country: United Kingdom
City: London

I'm Emily, a graphic designer from London. My life has become so intertwined with technology that I've lost the joy of real life. Sitting in front of a computer all day working, spending time on social media, watching videos - everything has become confined to the digital world.

I used to go out with friends, read books, and spend time in nature. But now I feel like I'm trapped in a world of screens. I often spend hours scrolling without even realizing it, when I could be doing something more important.

I understand that continuing like this will affect my mental and physical well-being. But it's not possible to completely disconnect from technology, because it's essential to my work. How can I find balance?

Solution: Rebuild your relationship with technology, find yourself

By Askly Help

Dear Emily,

Your problem is completely normal and many people are facing this problem in this day and age. Technology has become an indispensable part of our lives, but if its use is not balanced, it can cause stress and boredom.

The good news is that you yourself have realized that change is needed—that is the biggest step! Now you need to create a healthy balance, where technology will be there, but it will not control you, but you will control it. Let's look at some effective strategies—

1. Create awareness of the use of technology

Many times we don't realize how much time we're spending behind a screen. The first step is to analyze our own technology usage patterns.

Monitor screen time – Turn on the screen time feature on your smartphone or computer. Keep track of how many hours you spend on each app each day.
Delete unnecessary apps. – Remove apps that are just wasting time and don't add any value.
Set social media limits – Set a specific time limit for how long you will be on social media each day.

2. Start a digital detox (on a small scale)

Many people think that to reduce their dependence on technology, they have to give up absolutely everything. But the reality is that small changes can have a big impact in the long run.

Set "No Screen Hour" - Set aside at least 1-2 hours each day where there are no screens. Make it a habit to not use your phone after waking up in the morning and before going to bed at night.
Have a "Digital Detox Day" once a week. - try to go without your phone or laptop for at least one day. This habit has been shown to improve your focus and reduce stress.
Stop taking your phone to bed – If we keep our phone next to us while sleeping, we unconsciously keep scrolling. Keeping our phone away while sleeping improves the quality of our sleep.

3. Get back to real life habits

The best way to stay away from screens is to stay busy in real life.

Go back to your hobby. – resume doing things you once enjoyed (reading, doodling, going outside).
Spend time with nature. – Take a short walk in nature every day, spend time sitting in a park. Studies have shown that being close to nature increases focus and feelings of happiness.
Spend time with friends in person – Instead of virtual chats, try meeting friends or family in person.

4. Maintain a work-life balance

You're a graphic designer, so technology is essential to your profession. But it's important to keep work and personal time separate.

Set work and break times – Set work hours so that you are not sitting in front of the computer all day.
Use the Pomodoro Technique – take a 5-10 minute break after every 25-30 minutes of work, this will give your eyes and brain a rest.
Separate workspaces – If possible, have a designated area for work, so that you can step away from that area when you are finished.

5. Make technology your friend, not your enemy

Technology plays an important role in our lives, so it is not possible to completely eliminate it. However, the main challenge is to use it correctly.

Use productive apps – Instead of social media, use Duolingo, Calm, or a note-taking app, which is really beneficial.
Control dark mode and notifications – Reduce the extra light and notifications on your phone so you are less distracted.
Watch educational content – Don't just watch entertainment on YouTube or social media, watch content that teaches you something new.

Last words: Take control of technology, don't let technology control you.

Dear Emily,

Technology is essential to our lives, but the challenge is to find balance in its use. If you consciously change your digital habits, it will enrich your life, but it won't control you.

Take it step by step, be patient, and be kind to yourself. Developing a healthy relationship with technology will help you live a happier, more creative, and more peaceful life.

Good luck to you!

— Askly Help

Header Ads

Problem: Technology dependency vs. real life—I can't find the balance