#276 Finding Balance in a Connected World

In today's digital age, constant connectivity has become the norm. While technology offers countless benefits, it's equally important to carve out moments to disconnect and recharge. Unplugging from the digital world can rejuvenate your mind, improve your well-being, and allow you to be present in the moment. In this article, we'll explore the importance of disconnecting and provide practical tips to help you find balance in a hyper-connected world.

The first step to effective disconnection is recognizing the need for it. Pay attention to how much time you spend on screens and the impact it has on your mental and physical well-being. Once you realize the benefits of disconnecting, you'll be motivated to make it a regular practice.

Set Clear Boundaries

Establish boundaries for when and how you'll disconnect. Designate specific times during the day when you'll be screen-free, such as during meals, before bedtime, or when spending quality time with loved ones.

Create Tech-Free Zones

Designate certain areas in your home as tech-free zones. For example, make your bedroom a screen-free sanctuary to promote better sleep and relaxation. These zones can help you disconnect without feeling the constant pull of technology.

Digital Detox Days

Consider scheduling regular digital detox days where you abstain from using screens entirely. Use these days to engage in activities that don't involve technology, such as reading a book, going for a hike, or spending time in nature.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool to help you disconnect. Engage in activities that require your full attention, such as meditation, yoga, or simply observing your surroundings. Mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce the urge to constantly check your devices.

Prioritize Real Connections

While digital connections have their place, don't underestimate the importance of face-to-face interactions. Make an effort to spend quality time with friends and family in person. Meaningful conversations and shared experiences are essential for your well-being. Constant notifications can disrupt your focus and lead to a never-ending cycle of checking your devices. Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce distractions and regain control over your attention.

Be Kind to Yourself

Remember that disconnecting doesn't mean you have to completely cut off from technology. It's about finding a balance that works for you. Be kind to yourself on this journey and make adjustments as needed.

OVER SHARING

Well, unfortunately for me I guess the media became OVER sharing. I started realizing I was posting pics about my walks, to my food, to just looking outside the window. Every moment had to be captured as I had to update it and put it into all my various social media feeds including my blog. If I didn’t take pics, how would I share what happened in the last week. All kinds of weird thoughts started over the last year. Would it seem I am not posting regularly, that I don’t care…the thoughts turned WORSE. I started worrying maybe it would seem I just don’t have a life.

HOBBY

Everyone was posting pics it was NORMAL. I was not doing it and I almost started to STOP living in the effort to Share. And then suddenly one day I realized what is happening?? I went back to the time I started the blog. Just as a hobby. Social media can be a double-edged sword. While it's a great way to connect, it can also be a source of stress and comparison. Be mindful of how much time you spend on social platforms and consider unfollowing accounts that don't bring positivity to your life.

The hobby turned into great opportunities to work with such great brands and love the sponsors and they were really supportive and send me great products and dresses. It was just effortless. Suddenly, I realized what is happening. I just didn’t want to do anything but just about keep updating my life and posting all the information.I stopped enjoying blogging, but I started hating the process. It was becoming a huge process.

MORE WORK

Gradually I realized, it was not fun anymore. It was WORK. I already had work, and this was supposed to be a hobby. So I disconnected. Just decided to reduce all my usage of the social media outlets. I focused on them being able to do things and wanting to get things done my way. Relaxed. So I stopped using more than 50% of all apps related to social media. I felt better. It wasn’t fun anymore. I just use one of them and stopped most of the others, and I realized that I had more time for using my time for my projects.

SPONSORS BREAK

The moment I realized that something isn’t working and especially isn’t fun, it was a waste of time. Its not worth spending your time day and night. I took a break from sponsors and promotions. Its one of the best decisions for me now. I went back to what I like, blogging. Just writing about what I like and my experiences. Only in the recent weeks I have started to observe I am going back to feeling that I am enjoying it again. This is what I started to do. More choosy, not accepting all the sponsors and becoming a brand blog. So I have enjoyed the time of focusing of writing and sharing my travel stories.

SWITCH OFF

So sometimes, I recommend don’t listen to people. Switch off your mind. Don’t get caught up in views, opinions and gossip. Do things for you and that is most important thing in life. The more time you spend pleasing others or doing things for others, the more you will become miserable. I enjoyed blogging, not getting sucked into the need to please and do things FOR blogging. Just the simple thoughts and time that I took to express my views. So anything you take up in life, you need to make sure that you enjoy it more. 

Smile more, enjoy the moment

Put the camera down.

More family time and play time.

No  make up, dress up, looking picture perfect for that shot

No more posing, outfit of the day, any kind of look day, just natural pics going forward. 

In a world dominated by screens and constant connectivity, the art of disconnecting is a powerful way to reclaim your presence and nurture your well-being. By setting boundaries, prioritizing real connections, and embracing tech-free moments, you can strike a balance between the digital world and the real world. Remember that the ability to disconnect is a gift you give yourself—a gift of mindfulness, rejuvenation, and the opportunity to fully engage in the present moment.