How To Do A Digital Detox If You Have A Job That Relies On Tech

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In this day and age, avoiding technology is almost as impossible as avoiding breathing. You may have heard of people engaging in “digital detoxes,” but how do they work, and how can you participate if you use tech at work every day? It is possible, and we’re about to tell you how.

First off, know exactly what you’re signing up for if you’re interested in doing a digital detox. The general phrase refers to temporarily not using any electronic devices to refresh your mind and give you a break from screen time. As you can imagine, that seems contradictory if you have to be on a computer or your phone during the workday. Our twist on the detox allows you to do your job while giving yourself a break from the other tech in your life.

Here’s how to successfully detox from unnecessary tech while still kicking ass at work.

Before Work

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Wake up without your phone. Get a simple alarm clock that will do one job: Wake you up. Yes, we know the clock is technically digital, but it’s a way better option than blasting your eyes with a cell phone screen first thing in the morning. It’s worth noting that wildly successful people like LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner and ESCADA Chairman Megha Mittal told Thrive Global that they refuse to sleep with their phones in the same room. Just sayin’.

Don’t check your phone unless it’s absolutely necessary, and if you’re commuting, bring a book. Keep the phone-free time going as you’re getting ready. And if your morning involves a plane, train or bus, swap your usual music jam or podcast for a book or crossword puzzle.

At Work

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Don’t check social media (unless that’s your actual job). Unless you specifically work on social media accounts for your company, there’s no reason that you should be scrolling through your Facebook feed at work, anyway. But even so, checking it on your phone during breaks or while eating lunch should also be a no-no. Stay off social, people!

Put your phone on silent — or just put it away entirely. Your phone is a huge distraction, whether you believe it or not. Having it nearby can actually hinder your productivity, so take this opportunity to get it out of your sight.

Handwrite your notes. Of course, it’s easier to jot down meeting notes on your computer simply because you can type faster, but you’ll take a much-needed break from computer time by bringing a notebook instead.

After Work

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Turn off non-essential notifications after work. A Carnegie Mellon study found that even just turning your notifications off for 24 hours can significantly improve your overall focus and concentration. So just because you’re not at work doesn’t mean you can’t help set yourself up with some extra focus for the next day.

Don’t touch that TV! It’s not just your phone and computer you should be taking a break from. Stay away from your television and any other home devices as you decompress from your workday. Read, cook or have a friend over to hang instead.

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