Cell phones are an absolute marvel. Their incredible value in helping people communicate, work and entertain themselves is certainly undeniable. However, what is all that screen time doing to people? Is it possible that people who are over using their cell phones are potentially damaging their health or life in some ways?
Many people are becoming addicted to using their phones at all times. This phone addiction is becoming troubling. Other people are struggling with learning how to handle social interactions. They struggle with basic social etiquette since so many of their interactions are now through their phone. However, there are many healthy phone habits that can be developed which will provide maximum use, while maintaining a healthy level of moderation. Try developing some of these healthy phone habits. Parents should keep in mind that their children are going to follow their lead when it comes to phone usage. It’s a chance to be a great role model.
1 - Have a No Phone Zone
When someone has or is using their phone, they tend to feel amped up and alert. This can make it surprisingly difficult to truly relax. There’s a couple of places where people should be able to relax above all others. The first is their bedroom. This can be difficult because a lot of people want to wake up and check their phone. Putting a basket or shelf near the door can provide the no phone function, and allow people to go about their sleep schedule without having the phone. The other place that most families should choose a no phone zone is their kitchen table. Social interaction over meals is a staple of society in general. Teaching children that they should be paying attention to people and their meal instead of their phone from a young age can be very beneficial.
2 - Cleanse of Social Media
This is not suggesting that you delete your social media profiles in a big huff. Simply taking a small break for a few days can make a surprisingly big difference in how you are feeling mentally. It’s the phone equivalent of renting a cabin in the woods for a weekend and just breathing the fresh air. Everyone has seen those annoying and pontificating updates about how someone will be taking a break and not to look for them. If you choose to post about a break, just do it with a touch more subtlety.
3 - Only Get What You Need
This may sound like an odd habit, but many people spend a large amount of money on a smartphone they don’t really need. They want to be seen with the latest device. Often, to justify this purchase, they will then overuse the phone. They will have an app for every aspect of their life and try to use the phone in everything. These flagship phones often come with expensive phone plans which can put a bit of financial stress on their users too. Sometimes it’s better to go with a simpler model or even try out prepaid phones.
4 - Set Ground Rules for Notifications
The point of alarms is to get people’s heart racing and their attention. That’s great in a dangerous situation. But do you really need to hear a notification that your third cousin’s good friend just got a new car? It’s the act of the notification that can be damaging to people. It has trained people to immediately grab their phone so they don’t “miss anything important”. Turning off notifications for several hours each day is very healthy. Many phones come with a do not disturb mode which will keep the majority of notifications silent until you wish to hear them.
5 - Create a Social Appointment
It’s easy to get stuck on your phone, but try creating a time each week when you will be social with friends or family with zero phones involved. It can be tricky getting them to agree, but it helps. Whether you join a bowling league, or simply take part in Taco Tuesday, the time with your friends away from the phone can be a big help.