How a Digital Detox Changed My Life

In our day and age, it’s very easy to be consumed by those tiny screens called phones. But I want to tell you why taking a break from it will be the most liberating experience of your life.

It was the beginning of June when I decided to stop using my phone for a month, and it was very scary. For the majority of my life, I’ve had this device with me. I’d never thought that I was allowed to just not have it anymore. But due to family squabbles and excess stress, I knew something had to budge.

My phone dependency was so bad that I’d get an anxiety attack just by hearing my phone vibrate. That was the last straw. I put my phone in the dresser, and didn’t pick it up until the end of July.

And when I tell you that was the most productive and healthy two months of my life, I’m not blowing smoke. I’m completely serious. I’d wake up, and my first thought would be to look out of the window and look at the nature in my backyard instead of checking my phone to see an irrelevant text. I would go down to the lake and just people watch while reading my favorite book. I felt like a better version of myself. That’s not to say that you can’t be the best version of yourself while using a phone, but spending an intentional period of time without technology is beneficial for everyone.

Fast forward to me writing this article in the middle of finals week, stressing just like every other student around me. You can bet I’m looking forward to this month of self-reflection and time for myself. You should too.

If you’re not sure if you can just stop using your phone altogether, try this 30-Day Digital Detox Challenge or check out these tips on how to limit screen time.

Take those chances to be alone and comfortable with yourself and your surroundings without devices. The long-term benefits can’t be denied.

— By Zaire Caldwell, Economics, BS ‘19