To say we live in a hyper-connected world would be an understatement. With the broadband download speed in Australia hitting 95 Mbps, it’s no surprise that an increasing number of people are glued to their screens, even on the go.
Given this growing trend, the idea of a digital detox is now more important than ever. But don’t worry, you don’t have to disconnect entirely to make a positive change. It’s all about developing better internet habits that help you use technology intentionally and mindfully.
As one of the leading ISPs in South Australia, RBE Internet is committed to helping you enjoy the internet without feeling overwhelmed. We offer high-speed, reliable connections that let you stay connected without compromising your well-being.
And now, we’ll explain how you can develop better online habits.
What is a Digital Detox and Why It Matters
Do you ever spend hours on your phone before going to bed? You’re not alone. Australians now spend over SIX hours a day in front of screens, a number that just shows how much time we’re connected to the internet.
This increasing screen time warrants a digital detox from the internet, which is the practice of taking a break from the constant stream of information and technology. Detox helps:
1. Reduce Your Stress and Anxiety
Most Australians now have smart homes, with 24/7 connectivity. But constant notifications, emails, and social media can create a feeling of urgency. Developing healthy internet habits helps reduce these stressors and encourages a calmer, more focused mind.
2. Improve Your Sleep
Excessive screen time, especially before bed, disrupts your natural sleep cycle. Disconnecting helps improve your sleep quality, giving your mind and body the recommended seven to nine hours of rest they deserve.
3. Strengthen Your Relationships
Unplugging allows you to connect deeply with loved ones without distractions, fostering meaningful conversations and personal connections. It’s a great way to breathe new life into your personal relationships.
5 Signs You Might Need a Detox from the Internet
The first step in digital detox is identifying its signs. With our reliance on digital devices at an all-time high, you might notice some signs that indicate you need to restore balance in your life.
Here are some indicators that suggest you might need a break:
1. Feeling Guilty or Anxious Without Your Screen
If you feel anxious or guilty when you can’t use your devices, like during NBN outages, it’s a sign that your connection to the internet has become unhealthy. This constant need for digital presence can lead to burnout.
2. Sleep Disturbed by Screen Time
If your screen time is affecting your sleep, especially late-night scrolling, it’s time to change your internet habits. The blue light from screens interferes with your natural sleep cycle. The more time you spend on your phone before bed, the more disturbed your sleep will be.
3. Difficulty Concentrating
If you find it hard to stay focused on tasks without constantly checking your phone or tablet, it’s a clear sign that your brain is overloaded from too much digital interaction.
4. Social Withdrawal in Real Life
When you prioritise staying online over in-person conversations, you may start feeling isolated. A digital detox can help you reconnect with the world around you.
5. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
If you feel the need to check social media or notifications frequently, fearing that you’re missing out, this internet habit can negatively affect your mental health. About half of young Australians (51%) want to disconnect from social media but can’t because of FOMO.
How to Do a Digital Detox Without Disconnecting Completely
Typically, when you think about digital detox, it means you have to disconnect entirely from the internet, but that’s not true. It’s about creating healthier internet habits to improve your well-being. Here’s how:
1. Set Time Limits (Screens & Social Media)
Setting time limits is one of the most effective ways to curb excessive screen time. Use built-in features on your phone like Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android) to track and limit your usage. By setting time limits, you get to engage in other activities without feeling overwhelmed. This simple internet habit helps you regain control over your day.
2. Schedule “Offline” Periods Each Day
Designate specific times throughout the day to be completely offline. For instance, you could unplug for the first hour after waking up or the last hour before bedtime. These “offline” periods allow you to focus on mindfulness, enjoy a meal without distractions, or simply relax without the constant pressure of notifications.
3. Use Apps or Tools to Monitor Use
Many apps, such as Freedom, RescueTime, or StayFocusd, help you stay on track with your digital detox. These apps not only track your screen time but also allow you to block distracting websites or apps during certain times of the day.
4. Replace Screen Time with Offline Hobbies or Activities
Instead of mindlessly scrolling or binge-watching shows, fill your time with activities that don’t involve screens. Take up hobbies like reading, gardening, drawing, or cooking. Physical activities such as walking or exercising can also help you disconnect from technology while boosting your mood and energy.
5. Create Boundaries for Screen Time
To help your digital detox, set clear boundaries for when you use your devices. For example, avoid using screens during meals or 30 minutes before bed. This will help you have more meaningful conversations at the dinner table and a healthier pre-sleep routine.
6. Be Mindful of Internet Use
Be mindful if you want to detox from the internet. Instead of aimlessly scrolling through social media or checking emails out of habit, focus on being intentional with how you use the internet.
Ask yourself: “Is this productive? Is this adding value to my life?” Use your time online to consume meaningful content, like educational videos or articles, or engage in creating something, such as writing, blogging, or learning new skills.
7. Take A Digital Sabbath or Micro-Breaks
A “digital Sabbath,” where you take a day off screens (like a Sunday), can refresh your mind and help you reset. You can also take short micro-breaks throughout the day by stepping away from your computer for 5-10 minutes every hour. These breaks prevent burnout, increase productivity, and encourage you to stay present in the moment.
8. Maintain Accountability
Share your digital detox plan with your family, housemates, or partner to stay on track. Having someone to check in with or to join you in the detox makes it easier to stay committed and develop healthy internet habits.
9. Manage Your Expectations
Developing healthy internet habits takes time, and it’s natural to slip up. Instead of feeling guilty, take it as a learning opportunity, adjust your approach, and be kind to yourself. Managing your expectations means understanding that progress takes time.
Seek Help (When Required)
While planning a digital detox from the internet can be refreshing, there may be times when you need additional support to truly make a change. Seeking help is a sign of strength and a proactive step toward creating healthy internet habits that stick.
Ask for help if you’re:
- Struggling with anxiety when not connected
- Online usage is affecting personal relationships
- Unable to set or maintain screen-time limits
- Sleep disruptions due to excessive screen use
- Feeling isolated or withdrawn from too much screen time
- Online habits impacting job performance
- Uncertain how to use apps or tools to manage screen time
- Overwhelmed by the idea of cutting back on screen time
Start Your Digital Detox Now
Digital detox is a must in this hyper-connected world. Developing healthy internet habits helps you regain control over your time and create a balanced relationship with technology. Whether it’s setting boundaries, scheduling offline periods, or replacing screen time with enriching offline activities, there are many ways to detox from the internet.
At RBE Internet, we understand how important it is to stay connected, but we also believe that you should be able to enjoy the internet without compromising your well-being. Find your balance point, and browse our NBN Plans if you want a better connectivity solution.
