Screen time can feel all-consuming. But there are ways to combat it. Guardian readers explain the rules, hobbies and habits that help them maintain healthy lives offline

‘I deleted my Twitter account’: eight readers on how they avoid digital burnout

Screen time can feel all-consuming. But there are ways to combat it. Guardian readers explain the rules, hobbies and habits that help them maintain healthy lives offline

  • I accidentally left my phone on Do Not Disturb – it was bliss!
  • I listen to podcasts while cleaning or knitting
  • I deleted my Twitter and Instagram accounts’
  • Leaving home without my phone feels almost mind-altering
  • My friend and I compare weekly screen time reports
  • Years ago, I began to phase out screens at home
  • I don’t take my phone into the bedroom
  • People buy me jigsaws for birthdays and Christmas
  • WeborlEnglish
    8•1 year ago

    There was a moment in my life when I realized I was mentally burned out because when I read books, my brain couldn’t create images anymore.

    I analyzed my time and found myself in front of a screen almost all the time, without breaks. Due to my job, I’m already forced to be in front of two screens, so I started with my phone gradually, muting people on WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter.

    It wasn’t enough, so I reduced my use of Facebook and only shared music videos on my profile. If I had any notifications upon entering, I paid attention to them at that moment. I abandoned Twitter a while ago, and I have no regrets.

    Today, my phone doesn’t emit any sound or show any lights unless someone calls me directly. I only use it for some recreational time that I deem worthwhile, and I check WhatsApp notifications when I plan to change the playlist I’m listening to.

    I’m still somewhat mentally burned out, but I genuinely feel happier.

  • VaggumonEnglish
    4•1 year ago

    I deleted Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit, and Tumbler. When I signed up for Lemmy, I only followed 10 communities, and if i want to follow another, I have to get rid of one I already follow. With the issues Lemmy has been having, makes it easy to not spend too much time doom scrolling too. Though I’ve limited myself to only 15 min, 2 or 3 times per day regardless.