The Power of Digital Detox

I was walking down the street looking down at my phone screen the other day when I noticed across the street some knucklehead walking down the street looking at his phone. Why not relax for a second, look around and maybe say hello to someone?

Of course, I have caught myself doing this on more than one occasion. The power of the screen is strong.

Whether we know it or not, we are in a fight for our lives. The fight is between the delightful siren song of social media and the clarity to focus on what you choose. I enjoy watching people catch fish for sure, but I would rather catch the fish myself.

Recently I was talking to a successful entrepreneur. He owns several tech ventures and is also on the forefront of AI developments. I asked him where he was getting his information from — X, Facebook, Google, LinkedIn?

“None of that,” he said. “I have enough info to execute on what I am doing and I don’t need the distractions.”

Week-long digital detox

I am currently finishing up a week-long digital detox: very limited use of tech. I do it at least once a year and it is part of my battle plan to fight back against screen time. By unplugging for seven days, you give your brain a chance to rest, fostering creativity and problem-solving.

During this period, replace screen time with activities like reading, journaling, music or spending time walking in the woods. The absence of digital noise allows you to reflect on your priorities and goals.

This annual ritual sets the tone for intentional living year-round. Beyond the annual detox, adopting a low-digital lifestyle for the rest of the year amplifies these benefits.

The fight is difficult to totally win unless you become a monk, but we can win some battles without donning the robe. There are some easy wins. Shut off nonessential notifications. Set boundaries for device use. Designate tech-free hours or zones, like the bedroom or dining table.

Ultimately, a digital detox is about reclaiming your time and attention. By disconnecting annually for a week and minimizing digital noise year-round, you create space to focus on what truly matters.

Originally posted on Upstate Business Journal