The Internet is helpful in many ways, from providing us a space to socialize with friends and family members to offer new learning materials in the blink of an eye. However, there are just as many pitfalls to time spent online as there are perks. In fact, many Americans find their mental health deteriorating if they spend too much time on their smartphone, tablet, or laptop. That’s why it is important to strike a balance between your digital pursuits and your not-so-digital ones. If you’re ready to get started, check out our four suggestions below, which will help you trim down the time you spend on the Internet.
Give yourself a cut-off time for Internet use.
Do you find yourself scrolling on your Internet-enabled smartphone late into the night? If so, cut back the time you spend on your phone by assigning yourself an Internet cut-off time. Consider halting all online activities by 9 or 10 p.m. That way, you can enjoy a few hours of Internet use after your day ends, while still enjoying plenty of quality personal and family time, Internet-free.
Control your smartphone notifications.
Sometimes, it isn’t so much that you’re spending a lot of time online. Instead, it’s the constant flow of smartphone notifications that distracts you from your real life. Luckily, there are several fixes to this 21st-century dilemma. First, you can use your device’s settings app to change how you receive notifications. You can also simply tap your device’s Do Not Disturb button to suspend any distractions while you’re hard at work, hanging out with your family, or simply relaxing, screen-free.
Consider putting away your devices entirely.
If you can’t control the urge to check social media, read your favorite blog, or spend hours on YouTube, consider putting the device away entirely. Hiding your smartphone for a few hours, for example, can force you to put your behavior in check. As the old saying goes, your devices might be out of mind once they’re out of sight, so why not give it a try? The results might be worth it!
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