Technology is an incredible tool that humankind has come to know, appreciate and definitely take advantage of. However, sometimes allowing yourself to disconnect from technology is the best way to achieve a positive mindset that makes us feel truly connected.
I found this out the hard way, when my phone was stolen as I was leaving Brussels. I was just about to take a 4-hour bus ride to Amsterdam where I was staying with a woman I had never met.
Everything I needed was at my fingertips–even my book was on my phone! With it gone, I had to pass the entire bus ride completely alone with (DUN DUN DUN) only my thoughts.
Over the next few days, without the normal comfort of my readily available phone, I found myself meeting new people. I began to feel a sense of strong connection with those around me; a connection that I realized I had been lacking for a long time, and it totally increased my positive mindset.
Here are 3 positive reasons to disconnect from technology.
There Are No Distractions
Our smart phones are a great resource for information and can allow us to get work done on-the-go. But when we fall into the habit of using our phones as as tactics for distracting ourselves (or saving ourselves from boredom) we wind up with a lack of tolerance for just being.
Spending time quietly, alone (without your phone) may seem scary. However, the benefits to really listening to your thoughts can be crucial for personal growth and enhancing your positive mindset.
Your thoughts might not all be rainbow sand sunshine, but that doesn’t mean they should be avoided and buried beneath the screen.
Facing your boredom, the difficult thoughts, etc. is how we grow, and from that growth genuine positivity is born.
Connect In-Person, Instead Of Online
Sure, every once in awhile all you want to do is lay in bed and text your five favorite friends at the same time, without having to put pants on and leave the sheets. That’s totally, completely A-Okay!
Now, be honest. How often do you check your phone when you are actually hanging out with those favorite friends in real life?
It’s tough not to, mostly because it’s habit and we like to multitask. It can also be difficult because even your companion will check their phone, leaving you twiddling your thumbs.
Use your will power and don’t go for your phone when you’re with other people (even if they do.)
Instead, bury your phone at the bottom of your bag, and even if your companion takes theirs out, leave yours be. It’ll make you feel better about your own habits, it will make your friend feel like you care, and it’s a great way to invite positive thoughts into your life.
Related Content: 8 Signs You Need A Digital Detox
See The World Around You
Even during brief moments of stillness, we reach for our devices to save us from the world around us.
But honestly, the world around us can be so weirdly, stunningly beautiful and profound. If you never take the time to notice the beauty in little things, then how will you ever be able to see life with a positive mindset?
The other night (after I got a new phone) my friend went to the restroom while we were sitting at a table on the canal in Amsterdam. Of course, as soon as he walked away, I reached for my iPhone (old habits die hard.) When I realized what I had done, I decided to put it away again, and just look at what was around me.
I watched people from all over the world laughing and conversing. I watched the city lights sparkle as they reflected off the surface of the water. I heard music from a nearby establishment. I saw all of the beauty in life simply existing in that moment.
SO…Practice!!!
Shut down your phone, at least for an hour a day. Resist the urge to scroll before you’ve had a proper breakfast. Lean into your boredom and discover something new about yourself.
There are so many wonderful ways that training yourself (even a little) to put down your device can increase your positive mindset in a true and genuine way.
It’s not always easy to sign off, but when we do allow ourselves to disconnect from technology, we give ourselves the gift of the world around us and a deeper sense of connection.
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