Disconnect to Reconnect

While technology, including phones and social media, has provided incredible opportunities to connect many of us feel more disconnected from people than ever before.  Maybe the overuse of technology is somewhat to blame.  Did you know the average Australian spends 2.5 hours per day on their smartphones and most people claim they could not survive one day with it! Many people take their phones with them everywhere (including the bathroom) and constantly check it for no reason at all.  Smartphone 'addiction' is certainly topical and raises the question - is this the new paradigm for human behaviour and interactions? If you feel as though your smartphone usage is impacting your relationships here are some ways to disconnect to reconnect:

• Refrain from using your phone camera.  Having a camera so readily available on your phone tempts you to document almost anything but can take you away from truly being present in that moment. 
• Make a house rule: “Free for Three!” Schedule three digital free evenings three nights per week. This will give you an opportunity to connect with your friends and family over dinner without looking at your phone or TV.  Or perhaps gives you an opportunity to engage in a hobby or sit on a cosy chair to read a book.
• Schedule digital time.  Schedule two times a day to check social media, email (where possible), etc. And stick to it!
• Call people! Instead of texting, Snapchatting, using messenger, or posting, etc.
• Go on a tech-free holiday.  Literally disconnect and reconnect with nature and the wonder of the world around us.