Blog

Life Happens. We’re here to help.

Unplug to Recharge

Unplug to recharge scaled
Share:

As winter gives way to spring, now is a great time to unplug from the incessant distraction of our devices and connect with each other. Our Wellness Expert, Johanna Dunlevy, share some tips on disconnecting to reconnect and make better use of your time.

 

Plugging In: Pros and Cons

It is estimated the average American is distracted every three minutes by something in the workplace. It can take up to 20 minutes to refocus and get back on task. While this may seem extreme, we are living in a perpetual state of notifications, reminders, and alerts. Because we carry the world in our purses and pockets via our phones, we find ourselves addicted to staying plugged in.

Pros

Plugging in, in many ways, has made life much easier and richer – these days, who owns a paper map or uses a phone book? Remember those? Plugging in allows us to stay in touch with people at a moment’s notice all around the world. It makes instant communication between loved ones possible. Whether you are texting, emailing, or sharing photos on social media, the opportunities to stay connected are endless.

Cons

But all of that comes with a flipside. That flipside is finding ourselves attached to our devices. This might mean being distracted while at work or bringing work home, and therefore finding it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life integration. Feelings of inadequacy, fear of missing out (FOMO), and even feeling more isolated are all negative side effects of our attachment to staying plugged in.

 

Did you know?

  • 84% of cell phone users claim they could not go a single day without their device [1].
  • 67% of cell phone owners check their phone for messages, alerts, or calls — even when they don’t notice their phone ringing or vibrating [2].
  • Studies indicate some mobile device owners check their devices every 6.5 minutes [3].

 

How to Unplug Without Completely Disconnecting 

There are many ways you can unplug without permanently abandoning your device.

  • One of the easiest ways to start is by identifying no-phone zones. Perhaps you decide you are not going to bring your phone to the dinner table, or check it during a movie. Maybe you leave your phone in your bag while at work to avoid the temptation of checking social media.
  • You can also try routine and scheduled breaks from the screen. Start by taking a break from social media or your favorite game for a week or two. Your in-person connections could grow stronger, or maybe you rediscover your love of reading.
  • Give your morning routine a break. Instead of checking work email or Facebook when you wake up, make your first waking hours a screen-free time.
  • Detach from your device by organizing and eliminating apps. In regard to organization, move some of the apps you find yourself wasting the most time with off your home screen, and adjust notification settings for the ones you find most distracting. By eliminating apps you no longer use, you will be less distracted and further reduce distracting notifications.

If you’re having a hard time managing a good work-life integration, call 800-327-4692 to learn more about our Life Coaching benefit!

[1] http://www.pewinternet.org/2012/11/30/the-best-and-worst-of-mobile-connectivity/

[2] http://www.pewinternet.org/2012/11/30/the-best-and-worst-of-mobile-connectivity/

[3] http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2276752/Mobile-users-leave-phone-minutes-check-150-times-day.html

Related Posts

Vacation Smarter: Boost Well-Being Beyond the Escape

Are you familiar with that post-vacation afterglow? The kind where you return to work feeling recharged, brimming with new ideas, and more motivated than ever? Surprisingly, stepping away from your desk and embracing relaxation isn’t just enjoyable—it’s scientifically proven to be beneficial. But how can you preserve that uncluttered state of mind and heightened creativity, even after your holiday tan fades and your suitcase is tucked away? Let’s dive into practical strategies to harness the wellness benefits of your much-needed time off and minimize the post-vacation hangover.

Read More

Top 10 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Employee Assistance Program

How we understand work’s role in our lives is undergoing a paradigm shift accelerated by the pandemic. The once-believed clear lines between ‘personal life’ and ‘professional life’ have all but vanished. The reality is that how we work profoundly influences our personal well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. And it’s a two-way street: the stability or turmoil of our personal lives significantly shapes the quantity and quality of our professional contributions. Discover how Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can bridge the gap between these two spheres. Learn practical strategies to fully leverage EAP resources, enhancing employee well-being and potential. From dealing with personal challenges like financial stress or caregiving responsibilities to navigating professional hurdles, our top 10 tips provide a roadmap to ensure that employees understand the available support and how to tap into EAP resources effectively.

Read More

Maddox

Student Assistance Program (SAP) & Outpatient Counseling

Maddox*, an elementary-aged student, struggled with anger outbursts, physical aggression, and difficulties with problem-solving. After spending years off-and-on in therapy seeking treatment with various providers only to remark that “none seemed to want to listen,” Maddox’s parents sought SAP services through their district. 

Today, Maddox is completing his SAP sessions and moving towards outpatient counseling. He has reduced his anger outbursts and has learned skills to help him successfully navigate challenging days.

Skip to content