These days it seems that everyone has a smartphone of some kind, and those who don’t are thinking seriously about upgrading. Never before has mankind had access to a device right in their pocket that connects them to the world as well as phones do. But what happens when we spend more time connecting to those overseas via our phone apps and less connecting with the people right in the same room as us? This has been a bit of an issue for several years in a number of studies and parents are growing increasingly concerned about screen time for children. While it’s easy to worry about a child’s screen time, adults should worry about their own just as much. Here’s a look at my own #ScreentimeStats and what I think about them in a world that is progressively more and more obsessed with technology.
Laptop
My laptop is probably my biggest area of concern. While I do a lot of work from my laptop I do find that I spend way too much of my downtime on my laptop as well, either perusing Facebook or just reading news and other websites like Reddit. I openly admit that I could (and should) spend less time on my laptop when I’m not working, but it can be hard to when other people still continue to be seemingly glued to their phones or other devices. It’s kind of a vicious circle when it comes to trying to socialise – I’m aware of needing to take breaks from the screen, but often many people aren’t. Taking breaks means I keep my eyes in top condition and it helps me keep potential headaches and migraines under control. Vizulize also has some great tips on keeping your eye health up together when using lots of screen time, so check them out.
Phone
My phone is surprisingly not too big an issue for me like it can be for others. Maybe that’s because I find it easier to be on my laptop to do things like chat to people on Facebook or generally peruse the internet. I am quite bad for “having a quick Google” of things when I’m curious while watching TV or shows. I also use my phone for Instagram and WhatsApp, but considering I don’t use either of these applications nearly as much as I use Facebook, I find I’m not on my phone too much. I actually removed my Facebook app to stop me from being glued to my phone, although I do tend to use it for various types of games.
Other Devices
Luckily I’m not the owner of many other devices than a phone and laptop so I don’t find myself being glued to things like tablets or iPads. I’ve got a kindle for reading but it’s the only other device I have in my electronic repertoire, so I only use it for accessing books. As an avid traveller who is often on the road, having huge numbers of books isn’t ideal, so a kindle is the best way to go for me.
So when it comes to my screen time, at least it’s generally rather restricted to my laptop and not my phone or other devices. When I am out and with other actual human beings in the flesh, I try to make sure I make an effort to not look at my phone and be in the now with the people I’m physically with. Sometimes it is surprisingly refreshing to just be with those you’re actually in the company of. What do you think about your screen time or screen time for children? Share your thoughts in the comments!