How To Be More Mindful When Using Your Phone

Technology has taken over our lives; yes, that is something we hear often but technically, it is quite true. Every morning, the first thing most people do is pick up their phones, and although some of you may be thinking, “Well, I don’t really use it in the mornings other than turning my alarm off.” In the end, you are still relying on a piece of technology to wake you up in the mornings. According to the book The Cyber Effect by Mary Aiken, about 12% of the population is estimated to be truly addicted to their phones, while 61% of the population are estimated to sleep on their phones under the pillow – if you think about it, this should not be shocking to hear or read.

Getting rid of technology would not be a realistic solution to these problems, which is why a more realistic approach is needed and has thankfully been provided right here! I researched and put together the most basic steps you can take to become more mindful about using your phone, so read on and decide what you think you could be changing.

Ask yourself whether you really need your phone or not

Sometimes we find ourselves unlocking our phones just to stare at the screen and wait for something to happen. There are times when it is used as a distraction from something else in the environment, or as a tool for when you are bored. Instead, why not try doing something else, substitute this action with something non-electronic and see how that changes your phone usage!

Put your phone away for some time during the day

If you are someone who uses their phone for hours on end, then it is time to start putting it aside. Leave your phone somewhere you will not see it constantly for an hour or more and do your best not to think about it either.

Start doing stretches and check your posture

Using your phone can affect your mental and physical state, so start doing some stretches after using your phone and check how you sit every time. 

Delete addicting apps

This is straight forward, delete what you do not need and keep track of how long you are using an app for, especially social media platforms.

Check in on how you feel after using a certain app or your phone in general

Keep a mood tracker and look after yourself, as sometimes it is good to give yourself a break and detach yourself from the constant social media, what other people are saying or doing, and more.

Turn off non-essential notifications

Clean out your notifications every time, as well as your mailbox. Make sure you keep checking what is going on on your device and do not let it stop you from doing things in real life, such as work, tasks, chores, etc.

With these tips at hand, you are sure to pick up some good mindful habits when using your phone, so keep working consistently on all the advice given and observe how others are doing when using their phones; you may be able to help them too from becoming physically and mentally tired.