I just found out I’m above average.
Americans spend 4 hours and 25 minutes each day on their cell phones. Me? I’m closer to six!! Strolling through the aisles of Target. Placing an order at Starboard. Sneaking a peek in the middle of a CLHS game.
Please don’t judge.
We live in an age where the Internet is as integral to our lives as the air we breathe. It’s a source of infinite possibilities. A playground for curiosity. A platform for connection.
It’s crucial we find equilibrium—where we control the Internet and not the other way around. CLtel is sharing tips behind the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of leading a healthy Internet lifestyle.
The Signs of an Unhealthy Internet Lifestyle
Imagine a day governed by the ping of notifications and the endless scroll through news feeds. This is the portrait of an unhealthy digital routine. It disrupts sleep, strains relationships, and often leaves us feeling drained. It also exposes us to cybersecurity risks that we could mitigate with more mindful engagement.
Did You Know:
- The average American will spend the equivalent of 65 days on their phones this year.
- Nearly 90% of us check our phones within 10 minutes of waking up.
- 69% of us have texted someone in the same room
Laying the Groundwork for Balance
Balance starts with self-awareness. It’s about being as intentional with our online habits as we are about the foods we eat or the company we keep. Adopt an ‘information diet’ that aligns with your values, ensuring your digital consumption is nourishing and purposeful. Practice ‘digital hygiene’—regularly updating passwords, cleaning up inboxes, and staying educated on the latest in data protection.
Strategies for a Healthy Internet Routine
Balance isn’t just a concept—it’s a practice. By scheduling our Internet use, we create space for other aspects of our lives to flourish. Establish tech-free zones to preserve the sanctity of personal relationships and spaces. Seek depth in your online interactions, choosing quality connections over passive content consumption.
Tools and Techniques to Support Your Journey
Empower yourself with the tools that support these goals. Use apps that track your screen time or block distracting sites during work hours. Optimize your workspace with ergonomic equipment to support your body, just as you support your mind by limiting excessive screen time.
One tip I find helpful: Turn your screen to grayscale.
- Select Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size > Color Filters.
- Toggle Color Filters on and select grayscale.
The bright colors of the phone aren’t as distracting. You know what else works? Turning your screen facedown.
Finding Offline Balance
Balance isn’t just about limiting the Internet; it’s about enhancing the rest of our lives. Reconnect with offline hobbies that bring you joy and fulfillment. Prioritize physical movement to combat the sedentary nature of online work. And never underestimate the power of face-to-face human connection—something that no digital innovation can replicate.
Embracing the Positive Aspects of the Internet
Yet, the Internet is not a villain in our story. It’s a powerful tool for learning, fostering community, and sharing our creativity. It offers the potential for impact and influence at scale. By using the Internet with purpose and intention, we can profoundly enhance our lives and others in profound ways.
As with all things, the Internet requires balance. It’s about the deliberate choices we make each day to ensure that our digital habits support our life’s purpose and not detract from it. It’s about remembering that the most powerful connections we can make are not to WiFi, websites, and apps but to each other and ourselves.
This article isn’t about being anti-technology. It’s about being pro-human. Use the Internet to fuel infinite possibilities, connect with others, and create a life that reflects your deepest values and aspirations.
I’m starting by reducing the amount of time I spend on my phone.
