Digital Detox: Definition & Tips for Digital Detox

The definition of Digital Detox and valuable tips are easy to give. Implementing it in everyday life, on the other hand, is difficult. Find out how you can succeed in the (partial) digital phase-out and increase your quality of life in the article.

Definition and tips on digital detox

A definition of Digital Detox (translated: digital detox) could be: Digital Detox is the conscious renunciation of digital devices such as computers, smartphones or tablets. This renunciation can extend over certain times or affect certain places. We have compiled the best tips for digital detox below:

• In today’s times, a complete renunciation of digital technology would be tantamount to dropping out of society. A partial renunciation is therefore more realistic.

• In a first step, you can deactivate push services on your mobile phone and computer. This way you gain more self-determination about when you devote yourself to news and new information.

• Free yourself from the pressure to respond to news immediately. In turn, also be generous with those around you by not insisting on immediate responses.

• You can track your screen time with certain apps. You can also see which apps you use and how much. This allows you to reflect on your media use and identify patterns. You can also temporarily deactivate or restrict the apps here.

• Don’t check your new messages first thing in the morning. Buying an alarm clock can be useful for this. If possible, put your phone on silent or turn it off.

• Designated smartphone-free spaces or times are a good way to do this. An agreement with yourself and others could be, for example: Media is prohibited during meals and in the bedroom.

• Determine times when you give your attention to those around you. Arrange couples’ evenings, family weekends, time with children – digital media are taboo here. Listen attentively and actively to those around you.

• Go on holiday to a place where there is no Wi-Fi. Look out of the window instead of at the display when travelling by train. This will give you time to process your experiences, come down, relax and be present.

More good reasons for digital weaning

There are many powerful arguments for Digital Detox:

• Numerous people consider themselves mobile phone addicts. This becomes particularly obvious when one has forgotten the mobile phone at home. The feelings of helplessness and the constant thinking about and reaching for the device are similar to the withdrawal symptoms of a drug addict.

• For a more confident approach to technology, it can help to temporarily step away. This may be unfamiliar, but it pays off.

• Because besides the potential for addiction, using digital media risks becoming a source of stress. The blue light from displays can also promote sleep problems.

• Digital media can not only endanger one’s own health. The Federal Ministry of Transport recently drew attention to the fact that the use of mobile phones in road traffic can be fatal for oneself and others with the campaign “Get off the gas”.