She Strengthens

Taking Back Control: Breaking Free from the Grip of Excessive Media Consumption

As we embark on a new year, many of us are reflecting on areas of our lives that need improvement. For me, 2020 was a wake-up call – I realized that my phone, news, and media consumption had taken control of my life. As a professional in the financial services industry, I was required to stay informed about economic and political news, but this habit had spiraled out of control.

The Unhealthy Cycle

My daily routine consisted of waking up at 6 am, scrolling through news on my phone, and reading multiple newsletters. This setup made me anxious, worried, and depressed about the state of the world. To make matters worse, I’d find myself mindlessly scrolling through my phone at all hours of the night and early morning, disrupting my sleep patterns. It was time for a change.

The 30-Day Challenge

I decided to take on a 30-day “No-Phone For The First Hour Of The Day” challenge. For me, this meant staying away from my phone until 7 am or later. This simple yet powerful habit allowed me to start my day on a positive note, without the influence of screens. I could finally enjoy a quiet breakfast, work out, or simply meditate without distractions.

Preparation is Key

To prepare for the challenge, I unsubscribed from news outlets and podcasts, and invested in an old-fashioned alarm clock. I also made sure to charge my phone on the opposite side of my bedroom, making it harder to mindlessly scroll through it at night. These small changes added up to make a significant impact.

A Newfound Sense of Freedom

Since taking on the challenge, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my sleep quality, mood, and overall mindset. I’ve also reduced my news consumption, reserving specific times of the day to catch up on current events. By doing so, I’ve broken free from the constant stream of negative news and doom-and-gloom headlines.

Empowering Small Changes

While this challenge may not work for everyone, I encourage you to reflect on the small changes you can make to improve your daily life. Be honest about the factors affecting your sleep, mood, and overall well-being. By taking back control of our daily habits, we can exert more influence over our lives and create a more positive, balanced existence.