Written by Anicia van Zyl, Life and Transition Coach
Anicia van Zyl, operating her independent practice as Coach Anicia, is a certified professional life and transition coach for women.
In our fast-paced, digitally-driven world, we are constantly connected. Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets have become extensions of ourselves. While these devices offer convenience and accessibility, they also bring a flood of information, constant notifications, and an overwhelming sense of urgency. Amid this digital chaos, the concept of “disconnecting to connect” emerges as a crucial practice for mental well-being, productivity, and fostering meaningful relationships.
As a child of the 90’s, some might consider me old-school, but thinking back to the simplicity of my childhood, there are many memorable moments. Moments like riding bicycle to school, climbing trees and making friends with the neighbors, building forts with blankets, and writing letters to my friends in secret code that only they could read.
More and more, the younger generation can’t recall memorable moments like these, as most of their time is spent in front of a screen, whether it’s watching, gaming, scrolling, or texting.
As a Life and Transition Coach, I often come across the constant need for people to reconnect with themselves, their partners, families, and others in more meaningful ways. The most common reason for deteriorating relationships is the constant rush and invasive time spent on digital devices, and less time spent doing things together and communicating face-to-face. What can be more infuriating than welcoming your husband home form work, sitting around the dining room table, and asking him about his day, while his one hand holds the fork that pokes at the meal you just prepared, and the other hand scrolls on his phone? So how do we disconnect in order reconnect?
Recognize the overload of connectivity
The omnipresence of technology means we are always reachable. Work emails, social media updates, news alerts, and instant messages flood our screens day and night. This constant connectivity can lead to:
Digital burnout: The feeling of being overwhelmed and exhausted by the constant influx of digital information.
Reduced productivity: Frequent interruptions hinder workflow and creativity, creating mental blocks and disinterest.
Weakened relationships: Virtual interactions often replace face-to-face conversations and can lead to social anxiety, loneliness, and withdrawal.
Mental health issues: Increased anxiety, stress, and depression linked to social media and digital overload are becoming more apparent and a cause for concern.
The benefits of disconnecting
Disconnecting from our devices, even for short periods of time, can lead to profound benefits:
Improve Focus and Productivity: Unplugging allows for uninterrupted, focused work. Fostering creativity and efficiency.
Enhanced Relationships: Face-to-face interactions become more meaningful without the distraction of devices. Being fully present builds lasting and trustworthy relationships.
Better Mental Health: Reducing screen time can decrease anxiety and stress, focusing on personal time promotes a sense of calmness and well-being. This can be achieved by exercise, reading, taking a walk or meditating.
Mindfulness and Presence: Disconnecting encourages living in the moment and appreciating the present, reconnecting with ourselves and others in meaningful ways.
Practical steps to disconnect
These ideas are easy to implement and a great place to start:
Designate tech-free zones: Create areas in your home or office where devices are not allowed, such as dining room and bedroom.
Set boundaries: Establish specific times to check emails and social media, and stick to them. Avoid using devices during meals or family time.
Schedule digital detox periods: Plan regular breaks from technology, such as a tech-free weekend or an hour each day.
Use technology mindfully: Be intentional about your digital use. Limit time on non-essential apps and focus on activities that enrich your life. Many devices have the option to set screen time limits, use it as a guidance tool to implement self-discipline.
Engage in offline activities: Pursue hobbies that don’t involve screens, such as reading, hiking or camping and invite friends or join social groups.
Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, breathing exercises and journaling can help you stay grounded and reduce the urge to constantly check your devices.
The role of companies and communities
Businesses and communities can play a significant role in encouraging digital balance:
Promote healthy work habits: Encourage employees to take regular breaks away from digital screens, limit after-hour emails, and support remote work polices that emphasize productivity over constant availability. Promote outdoor team-building activities that encourages engagement and communication between team members.
Create awareness campaigns: Educate the public about the benefits of digital detox and the importance of mental health, especially for the younger generations.
Foster community engagement: Organize events and outdoor activities that encourage people to connect without relying on technology.
Be present
In an era where digital connectivity is inescapable, the practice of disconnecting to connect is more important that ever. By taking deliberate steps to reduce our dependance on technology, we can reclaim our time, enhance our relationships, and improve our overall well-being. It’s about finding a balance that allows us to enjoy the benefits of technology without being overwhelmed by it. So, take a moment to unplug, and rediscover the joy of being truly present in the world around you.
Anicia van Zyl, Life and Transition Coach
Drawing from her personal experiences, battling with infertility and a diagnosis of stage four endometriosis, Anicia's heart and work deeply resonate with women facing their own challenges. Her life's mission is to provide guidance and support to these women. Coach Anicia specializes in helping individuals navigate periods of change and uncertainty, guiding them to make positive life changes, overcoming past experiences, rediscovering purpose and igniting drive. She places strong emphasis on mental well-being, inspiring and empowering women to embark on a journey of personal growth and development.
