Dump 10: Unplug; You Need a Digital Detox!
Learn To Disconnect Without Missing Out
Hey, Tech Bestie💜,
Picture this: It’s late, and you promised yourself you’d be in bed an hour ago. Instead, you’re scrolling through emails, checking Slack “just one more time,” and refreshing your favorite app or blog for updates you probably don’t need to know tonight. Your brain feels fried, your eyes are tired, but you can’t seem to put your phone down.
Sound familiar?
I’ve been there too. As tech professionals, we’re so used to being ‘always-on’ that stepping away feels unnatural—almost reckless. What if you miss an important update? What if your team needs you? What if…? The constant worry and guilt of disconnecting can make us cling to our devices even harder.
But here’s the thing: this endless cycle drains you more than you realize. And I want you to know—you’re not alone in feeling this way. Together, let’s explore how to take a meaningful digital detox without sacrificing the things that matter most to you and me.
Why Disconnecting Matters
When was the last time you went a whole day without checking notifications? Probably never, right? Being always connected may seem like the norm, but the truth is it takes a toll—on your mental health, your focus, and even your creativity.
If you’ve been feeling distracted, burned out, or caught in a loop of busyness, that’s your mind and body asking for a break. And it’s okay to take one. In fact, it’s necessary.
A digital detox isn’t about escaping your responsibilities—it’s about restoring your energy so you can show up better.
How to Disconnect Without Going MIA
Let’s be honest: completely unplugging can feel unrealistic, especially in our industry. But there are ways to step back while staying on top of things. Here’s how:
Set boundaries:
Decide when and where you’ll be offline, and communicate this clearly to your team. “I’m not available after 8 PM” or whatever timezone you work in–is a simple boundary that works wonders.Designate tech-free zones:
Create spaces in your home where screens aren’t allowed. Your dining table, for example, can become a space for meals and conversations—no notifications allowed–Mine’s the kitchen!Leverage automation:
Tools like autoresponders and scheduling apps can keep your workflow humming while you take a breather. I sometimes detest the idea of always doing things manually on the go when I can assign software… Duh!
Tech That Helps You Detox
Yes, you can use tech to help you disconnect from tech (sounds ironic, I know). Here are some tools to try:
Freedom or Toggl to block distracting apps or websites.
p.s Watch my video about Toggl here
Focus mode on your devices to limit notifications.
Email auto-responders to let people know when you’ll get back to them.
These small changes make a big difference over time.
P.S. I intend to add traveling to my list of detox methods– you should too!
Reconnecting After a Break
The idea of returning from a break might stress you out—but it doesn’t have to.
Start by prioritizing what truly needs your attention. Everything else can wait.
Give yourself time to adjust. You don’t have to respond to everything at once.
Reflect on what worked during your detox and commit to keeping it up.
Let’s Make This Sustainable
Digital detoxing is about more than just stepping away from the suffocation of the internet and/or technology; it’s about reclaiming your energy and focus so you can thrive, not just survive.
This week, I challenge you to take one small step toward disconnecting—maybe setting a boundary, trying a tech-free zone, or downloading a screen time tracker. Whatever it is, remember: it’s okay to start small.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, I’m here. Hit reply and let me know your thoughts, your worries, or what’s holding you back. We’re in this together.
You’ve got this💜
Phew! See you next Wednesday!