Make Your Screen Time Matter

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People swipe on their phones an average of 2500-5000 times per day

 
With the TikTok ban looming in the U.S. amidst national security concerns, I believe we should also be asking a deeper question: 

What are we allowing to capture our attention?

Social media isn’t just profiting from our data—it’s also draining our limited time and energy!

Isn’t it funny how we all wonder why we can’t get things done, yet we constantly allow ourselves to be distracted?

As someone who recently deactivated their Instagram account, I’ve realized how much passively consuming endless videos—ones I never even searched for—has negatively impacted my well-being.

Whether it was comparing my life to those who could afford trips to Europe or staying up late searching for something to share with friends, I realized I was consuming content without purpose.

In a time of shrinking attention spans, the ability to focus and take action is more valuable than ever.

Now, I’m not saying entertainment is bad, but spending 4 to 5 hours a day scrolling on autopilot isn’t healthy.

So, the real question is: 

How can we be more intentional with the content we consume, ensuring that the time we spend staring at our screens is actually beneficial?

1. Audit Your Digital Habits

Start by tracking how much time you spend on different apps. Most smartphones have built-in screen time trackers—check them and ask yourself: Is this time well spent?


2. Set a Clear Purpose for Screen Time

Before opening an app or website, ask: What do I want to gain from this? Whether it’s learning something new, networking, or creating, make sure your time has a purpose.


3. Replace Passive Consumption with Active Creation

Instead of just watching videos, try making them. Instead of reading posts, write your own. Instead of scrolling mindlessly, engage in meaningful conversations or document your own thoughts.


4. Curate Your Digital Environment

Unfollow accounts that trigger comparison, anxiety, or mindless scrolling. Instead, follow creators who inspire you to take action, learn, or grow.


5. Schedule Screen-Free Activities

Set aside time for activities that don’t involve screens—reading a book, journaling, exercising, or spending time with loved ones. The less dependent you are on constant digital stimulation, the easier it becomes to focus.


Resources

Book Rec: Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport

Duolingo: Learn a New Language Instead

Download Forest: Stay Focused

Project Gutenberg : Free Books

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