This generation of teens were the first to be born in the digital age. They’re hyper-connected, they see the digital world as an extension of themselves and their identity, and they can’t last very long without internet connection.
How can teens create offline-friendly habits that can benefit them immensely? Here are some basic tips:
1. Evaluate whether you’re in the right time and place to be on social media. When you’re at school or work, or at a social gathering, there may be more important things to focus your attention on.
2. Set fixed times to go on social media. This way, you will be less likely to keep scrolling mindlessly—this can take up more time than you notice!
3. Avoid screen time before going to bed. Leave your phone or tablet far from your bedside to avoid abusing your screen. (Social media has been proven to worsen cases of sleep deprivation!)
4. Engage in activities that don’t include a screen. Believe it or not, there are a lot of options: playing games, trying out sports, going to museums or parks. Giving your eyes and mind a break can do wonders!
5. Spend time with the people around you. Bond with them in ways that don’t include tagging or sharing digital posts. Internet addiction has been proven to negatively affect the depth and quality of personal relationships. Next time you spend time with a friend, make a resolution to stay more connected to them than to the friends on your phone.
Being more mindful can do wonders for mental and even physical health. It’s good to remind yourself every so often that life is best lived outside your screen.
