The Art of Digital Detox

How Unplugging Can Boost Creativity and Productivity

Ever feel like you’re being pulled in a thousand different directions, all at once? In this age of information and technology, we’ve never had more productivity potential. Yet, there is a wide gap between the potential for productivity, and actual productivity. Why? In this article, we dive into the benefits of a digital detox and why we might need one in the first place. 

Memory of a Goldfish?

Have you ever heard the term, memory of a goldfish? Although not scientifically backed, there’s a common conception that goldfish have a 9-second memory. While scientists haven’t been able to accurately measure the memory of a goldfish, they can accurately measure the memory of a human being.

Since 2002, the average attention span for a human has gone down from 12 seconds to 8 seconds! However, there is significant debate as to whether our attention span is actually decreasing, or if there’s way more input than ever before. Indeed, we require a certain amount of time to comprehend and absorb information presented to us. As information becomes increasingly rapid, our time to take in the messages we’re receiving is becoming shorter and shorter. Therefore, we dedicate less time to each piece of information. This effectively trains our brain to be quick and fleeting when it comes to engaging in our environment. Imagine you’re in a conversation with three different people, simultaneously. How can you possibly listen to three different people speak, and then respond to each of them? Answer, you can’t! While there is ongoing research, scientists collectively agree that reducing the flow of messages and stimulation to the brain offers it a chance to sit with information for extended periods of time. This, in turn, will result in maximizing attention spans. 

Stress Less and Reduce Anxiety

Everyone knows the feeling of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). For sure, the emotion predates the iPhone and even the modern age. Yet, access to what we’re actually missing out on has never been more available. This, combined with the pressure to stay constantly connected can increase stress levels within the body. Notifications, emails, and messages all create a false sense of urgency, which can contribute to people having increased levels of anxiety and stress. The link between social media and anxiety has been well-researched and documented.

Taking time away from these apps can offer our brain relief from the constant barrage of FOMO.

Combat Information Overload

Ever feel like you’re brain’s bursting at the seams? Frequent and more likely, constant exposure to new information from all directions can impact the brain's ability to retain and process information on a deep level. “Information overload”, as it’s commonly referred to, is quickly becoming a common occurrence. Best practices for avoiding overload are filtering, withdrawing, queuing, and “satisficing”, accepting an available option as satisfactory. These methods, combined with intuitively designed information systems, effective personal information management, and the promotion of digital literacy all work to stifle the onset of information overload.

Being Together has Never Felt More Alone

Ever heard of the term, comparison is the thief of joy? Today, it’s never been more easy to compare one another. While constant connectivity is great for close social contacts and relationships, it adversely affects a person’s sense of value and place within society. If we’re constantly being shown what others are doing and how great their lives are, we’re constantly asking ourselves the question, why don’t I get that? Questions like this can lead to real feelings of inadequacy and isolation.

In order to address these issues, boundaries need to be set for technology use. Purpose-driven engagement and positive outlooks go a long way in terms of stifling the effects of excessive digital use. Balancing connectivity with periods of disconnection can help mitigate these negative effects and support overall mental well-being.

Practical Tips for Unplugging

We know unplugging is good for us. We want to unplug, but how? Technology is everywhere! Fear not, here are a few helpful tips on how to unplug.

Reduce Screen Time: Almost all devices have a screen time feature where you can view your weekly screen time and set parameters for future use. Knowing how much information you’re consuming is half the battle when it comes to controlling it. 

Set Boundaries: There are many different ways one can set an information boundary. Some people are literally locking their phones in boxes set with a time lock. There are features in apps like Instagram and Facebook, where one can set alerts for when the user has exceeded a certain amount of time on the app. Alternatively, some folks simply leave their phone at home when going for a walk or run, effectively creating tech-free time.  

Tech-Free Zones: More common in schools and government buildings, tech-free zones are the surest way to get some space from our devices. While they are common, they also rely on the honor system, so if discipline is an issue, the former two options might be the place to start for a digital detox.