A world of knowledge, communication, and entertainment is just a tap away all of the time.
Phones are great! They allow us to read, watch, talk, and text from practically anywhere! Phones are so great in fact that we spend about 40% of our waking hours on an internet-connected screen. That’s 7 hours per day, 2555 hours per year, per person. Imagine if you could get some of that time back at the end of the year? Though you could argue that most of that time was probably used for work anyway, a survey from 2000+ adults found that less than half of the time we spend on screen is actually used to be productive. But with all of the things that studies and surveys say people wish they could do if they had more time in their day to do things, why do we use what precious little personal time we have on a screen? Well, according to studies, “Technological devices offer a continuous stream of notifications, updates, and entertainment options that can be difficult for people to ignore. Furthermore, these stimuli can activate the dopamine reward system in the brain, resulting in a cycle of compulsive use and addiction.” It’s no surprise that something that affects our brains this way causes us to lose track of time that we do. But what would you do if you had that much extra time in your day?
A poll in December 2022 made up of 2000 adults found that if given extra time, “One in five would focus on projects or tasks they enjoy, while 28% would tackle more projects and bigger ones. While 34% would knock out some chores, 20% feel they’d need the time for some extra sleep. Some would even take on new responsibilities such as by going back to school (21%) or adopting a pet (19%).” Though it can be difficult to find that much and to pull ourselves away from something that is proven to be addicting, it's essential to consider the value of reclaiming personal time and redirecting it towards meaningful and fulfilling activities. Taking a break from the constant barrage of notifications and screen time can lead to increased productivity, improved mental well-being, and the pursuit of personal passions.
While phones and internet-connected screens have undoubtedly transformed the way we live, work, and communicate, it's crucial to strike a balance. Being mindful of the time spent on screens and consciously choosing to allocate some of that time to activities that bring joy, fulfillment, and personal growth can significantly enhance the quality of our lives. As we navigate the digital age, let's not forget the importance of enjoying the offline world and making the most of the precious time we have.
https://explodingtopics.com/blog/screen-time-stats
https://nypost.com/2023/01/24/americans-reveal-what-they-would-do-with-more-free-time-poll/