The vast majority of adults use technology during their work day as well as during their everyday lives. Is it possible to put limits on screen-time? Experts believe the average working adult spends close to 11 hours a day behind a screen and checks their phone an average of every 20 minutes. The bigger question has become when is it a necessity versus an addiction?
Identifying Signs of Addiction to Technology
The signs of addiction often mimic those of an alcoholic.
- Family/friends are complaining to you about the constant use.
- You are finding ways to lie or hide the use from your family or friends (hiding in a bathroom or staying in the car before going inside, etc…).
- The immediate need to respond to a text or email.
- Screen-time affects sleep, exercise, relationships, etc…
- It’s the last thing you do before bedtime and the first thing you grab in the morning.
- Headaches, neck aches, back aches, and shoulder aches.
Creating Limits on Screen Time
If you find that you have some or all of the aforementioned signs, there are steps you can take!
- Try limiting non-work screen time.
- Charge your phone in the kitchen so sleep is not interrupted.
- Mealtimes should always be free of TVs, smart phones, and other screens.
- Limit social media to once a day.
Let’s face it, your world is not going end if you don’t post a picture of your lunch salad. The endless pictures to scroll through are not going anywhere. Cherish you time and actually visit a forest or the beach instead of searching for images online. This is your life and you only get one. LIVE IT!