At the start of the New Year, I made a conscious decision to cut back on my phone usage. I realized that apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube were consuming too much of my time. While I never got into TikTok, I briefly tried it and found it overwhelming.
Determined to regain control, I deleted Instagram and Snapchat and limited my YouTube time to just 10 minutes a day. Although I couldn't uninstall YouTube due to my Android system, setting boundaries was a game-changer.
This decision aligned with the principles of digital wellbeing—the mindful and intentional use of technology to enhance our physical, mental, and emotional health. In today's fast-paced digital world, excessive screen time can lead to addiction, anxiety, sleep issues, and decreased productivity. To counter these effects, we need to set limits, take regular breaks, stay active, and nurture real-world connections.
By reducing phone usage and practicing digital wellbeing, I’ve experienced improved focus, creativity, and meaningful interactions. Technology is a powerful tool, but only when used wisely. Let’s make an effort to unplug, recharge, and reconnect—with ourselves and those around us.