Less Phone Time, More Connections

By Donna Stark 

We've all done it. The endless scrolling, the unnecessary gaming, the time-stealing binge-watching ... if you have a phone in your hand the odds are great that you have spent too much time on it at one point or another. So, it should come as no surprise that your children might be spending too much time on theirs too. If you and your loved ones would like to disconnect from your electronic devices and reconnect with each other, take a look at the following suggestions. It's a lot easier to do than you may imagine!

Bring Back the Good Old Days

Do you remember back in the day when somebody needed something and actually had to pick up a phone to call you? And when most people would only call during the standard "working" hours because after a certain time in the evening, they knew you were with your family? By setting those types of boundaries in your life, you may be able to put your phone down more often. Ask your friends, coworkers, and loved ones to keep the work requests during work hours and to respect your family time at home more.

Set Designated Times

How often do you get pulled into a "quick social media scroll" while checking your text messages only to find yourself still scrolling hours later? By designating a certain amount of time each hour to check your texts, emails, and other messages, and by deleting those time-stealing apps, you can spend those extra hours nurturing the relationships in your life and strengthening connections with others.

Put Phones Away in the Car

This goes without saying for the driver, but let's try to do the same for all the passengers too! The time spent in a car can effectively be used to catch up on the day, share stories, and enjoy music together (there's sure to be someone who will break out in song). It's also another perfect opportunity for everyone to unplug from their device. Even if it is a short drive, every minute counts!

Hold Each Other Accountable

After committing to a more phone-free routine, encourage your friends and family to hold each other accountable! It's going to be an adjustment in the beginning, that's for sure, but it can be done! Be sure to set some clear guidelines from the beginning, such as no phones during mealtimes, the first hour after school or work, or right before bed. You can come up with other rules to follow too, but make sure everyone is on board for the most success!

A More Connected Life

It's time to put the phones and electronic devices away so all of your connections can be strengthened. It may not be easy at first, but with a well-constructed plan, the balance you and your loved ones are seeking will be found!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wheaton, Ill.