For those who have a smartphone but are looking for a better balance, we provide tips and advice on how to create healthier habits and improve your digital wellbeing.
We totally get it - to be young and constantly connected and surrounded by the pressures of today’s digital world. It’s a lot. There’s no surprise that so many children are facing increasing levels of anxiety, depression, low self esteem and other negative effects.
In an ideal world we would recommend avoiding social media altogether (if you watch The Social Dilemma you’ll realise even the creators of these platforms don’t allow their own children on them), but we suggest a minimum age of 16 if you decide to go down that route.
Life is all about balance.
It’s not something you find, but something you create.
Finding a balance is key. It can be helpful to focus on what you’re currently doing and recognise the value in it, rather than constantly comparing yourself to others. It’s also good to remind yourself that everyone has different experiences and priorities.
FOMO (the Fear Of Missing Out) is a pretty common feeling amongst the young, especially in our hyper-connected world. It refers to the feeling or perception that others are having more fun, living better lives, or experiencing better things than you are. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of dissatisfaction, all distracting you from enjoying the real world in front of your eyes.
JOMO (the Joy Of Missing Out) in contrast, is about finding joy in being content with your current situation and not feeling pressured to be everywhere or do everything. It’s the appreciation of the present moment and enjoying your own company or your current activities without feeling the need to compare, share, or compete with others. JOMO promotes a healthier balance by encouraging satisfaction and mindfulness.
Reducing screen time in 3, 2, 1 ...
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Reducing screen time in 3, 2, 1 ... ↓
Digital detox and digital wellbeing are related concepts, but they focus on different aspects of managing our relationship with technology. A digital detox is a temporary break from digital devices, while digital wellbeing is about integrating mindful technology use into your daily life for long-term health and balance.
Let’s explore digital wellbeing.
Digital Wellbeing
Digital wellbeing refers to trying to maintain a healthy balance when using smartphones and social media. It encompasses practices and strategies aimed at ensuring that technology enhances, and not detracts from, your overall quality of life. The concept addresses both the positive and negative impacts of using a smartphone and your social media behaviour.
Think of it like this; imagine your brain is like a sponge, soaking up lots of information and experiences. Digital wellbeing is about making sure that sponge doesn’t get too saturated and overwhelmed from all the things it’s soaking up online. Here are a few tips to follow:
Balance
Just like you need to balance playtime with schoolwork and time with friends, you also need to balance your screen time with other activities.
It’s really important to spend time outside, read books, and hang out with family and friends.
Healthy Habits
Using digital devices, like smartphones and computers, can be great, but it’s important to use them in a way that doesn’t make you feel stressed or tired.
Taking breaks, not staring at screens right before bed, and setting time limits on using devices are all part of this.
Safe & Smart
Digital well-being also means being safe and smart online.
This means not sharing personal information with strangers, being kind to others online, and knowing how to handle things if you see something that doesn’t feel right.