In an increasingly connected world, Digital Wellbeing is all about finding balance. It’s not just about reducing our screen time – it’s about making intentional choices to create a healthier relationship with technology.
Taking control of your time
We often underestimate the power we have over our own Digital Wellbeing. Taking intentional breaks throughout the day can make a huge difference. The time we spend in front of screens can be overwhelming, but stepping away for even just five minutes can help reset focus and energy levels, improving overall self-care.
A simple but effective way to protect this time is by reinforcing a ‘lunch amnesty’ – allowing yourself a proper break without digital interruptions. Guarding this time helps prevent burnout, reduces stress, and boosts productivity in the long run. Prioritising regular breaks can also enhance your mental clarity and emotional health, providing space for relaxation and mindfulness throughout the workday. Think of it like letting your phone charge – it’s hard to use a device that’s running on low power, and the same goes for you.
Setting boundaries and focus time
The digital world is always on, but that doesn’t mean we have to be. Switching off outside working hours helps maintain a healthier work-life balance by giving you more time to recharge. One of the simplest ways to reclaim control is by managing notifications. If you ever struggle to focus on your work, a quick and effective tool is Do Not Disturb (DND) mode which can be useful for managing your notifications and keeping disruptions to a minimum.
‘Email overwhelm’ can also be a real issue. Try time blocking your diary for checking and responding to emails rather than constantly checking throughout the day. Setting designated times for email review helps reduce distractions and keeps you focused.
Empowering each other to work smarter
Digital wellbeing isn’t just personal; it’s something we can all support. Simple changes can have a big impact on how we work together. Sometimes, picking up the phone or having a face-to-face conversation instead of sending an email makes all the difference. Why not try a walking meeting?
Communication is key – for example, letting colleagues know when you’re unavailable or specifying in your email signature that responses aren’t expected outside working hours can help create an environment where everyone feels comfortable setting their own limits, ensuring we all respect each other’s time and wellbeing.
Sharing your top self-care tips, such as Time Productivity strategies or wellness practices, within teams is a great way to collaborate with colleagues. It reminds everyone to take care of themselves amidst the demands of their workday. For example, techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (working in 25-minute bursts with 5-minute breaks) helps manage screen time effectively while giving you a chance to recharge.
At its core, Digital Wellbeing is about empowerment – giving ourselves and each other the tools to work smarter, not harder. By investing in digital wellbeing, you’re creating a more focused, balanced, and healthier you.