Are you using social media? Or is social media using you? Our phones can be a great tool, but remember they are a tool that we need to control. Sadly, mobile phone addiction is a serious problem. Next time you are stuck at the traffic lights or in the passenger seat, have a look at the cars beside you. It is incredible the amount of people who use their phones whilst driving.
Social media is a business. They are primarily designed to make money. Be aware that similar methods that are used in the gambling industry are actually used to keep us checking in on our phones. Also be aware that social media rewards the same part of our brain as drugs and alcohol. Without going into further details and with time management in mind, here is what I believe you can do to use social media verses it using you!
Social Media:
By Brendan Zischke
1
Move all of your social media apps to a folder that is not on your home screen. This sounds simple because it is. Why do it? It stops the “quick check.” It means that instead of picking up your mobile, entering your pin and pressing on a social media application, more effort is required. So, place it within another folder so that to actually use it, more time and effort is required. Hang on though, isn’t this chapter all about time management?
All it takes is a notification (our phone vibrating or chiming) and we are at the mercy of our willpower. Let friends and family know that if something is urgent please call or message you the old school way! Simply knowing this reduces the thoughts of missing out.
I will never get the time back with them and I try to be 100% present with them. Capturing special Cal Newport PH. D has suggested moments with a photos/ videos, that it takes on average 20 minutes urgent calls / texts and the to return to your level of focus occasional video call with family when switching from a task to are the only exceptions. This will your phone. be very hard at first.
3
Try to put 100% of your attention on what you are doing. If you are watching a movie, watch the movie without Apply the, “out of sight out of scrolling through your phone. This mind principle.” Again, it is mindful approach is very really easy to be at the mercy of important for time management as our phone. you will be more relaxed. It becomes a time where you are, “sharpening the saw.” Yes! When you use it you will likely be using it with a purpose and hopefully less often!
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This has been an absolute game changer. Whenever I am with my kids or even walking my dog, I am 99% of the time not using my phone. I give them 100% of my mindful attention.
Please give it a go. You will be amazed at the quality time it creates. Please note I do still have it available to use in case of emergency.
5
Phone Free Bedroom. This is simple. Stop scrolling in bed.
Place it out of reach.
