Declutter your digital footprint

Part 3 of 5: Control what you can control series

Declutter your digital footprint and bring added calm to your life! Computers, tablets and phones bring the world to our fingertips — in both positive and challenging ways.

When we think about what we can truly control in our lives, smart digital usage helps us manage our time wisely. And that gives us more time to spend on truly fulfilling activities. Managing your digital world can be difficult, but a few simple changes reap big rewards!

We all use technology more these days

Even prior to the impact of COVID-10, technology use had increased at rapid rates. A 2018 article on medium.com showed:

• A 40% increase in total digital media usage since 2013
• Doubling of smartphone usage in 3 years
• More than half of internet time was on “leisure activities,” including social media, video viewing, entertainment/music, and games.

And the pandemic has only intensified digital usage. According to the Pew Research Center, “a majority of Americans are turning to digital means to stay connected and track information about the outbreak.”

Technology brings many benefits

Across the globe, we use the internet to work, educate our children, shop, and connect with loved ones long distance. We use technology for many valid reasons, including connecting and relaxing.

And yet, the average person now spends more than 3 hours a day on mobile devices. And, social media accounts for 20% of the total time spent online.

We must remember it’s a tool

Increasingly, technology experts caution that technology is a tool which can easily overcome our lives. Unless we use it intentionally. Cal Newport’s 2019 New York Times best-selling book, Digital Minimalism, is revolutionizing how many people approach digital tools.

Cal explains, “Digital minimalism is a philosophy that helps you question what digital communication tools (and behaviors surrounding these tools) add the most value to your life.”

The digital minimalist philosophy is grounded in simplicity and intentionality. Essentially, digital minimalism is decluttering your digital footprint. Think of it as clearing away low-value digital noise and reducing your technology to tools that significantly improve your life.

Six simple tips to declutter your digital footprint (curated from leading experts)

Inspired by digital minimalism? Want to declutter and simplify your digital footprint to clear out low-value digital noise?

Try these six simple (not always easy) tips for being intentional about your tech!

1. Intentionally make space for technology you love and eliminate everything else.

This philosophy is the heart of minimalism in every area of your life and it works digitally as well. Delete anything you don’t use regularly and can go find if / when you need it, especially in these four areas: a) Applications on your tablet or phone, b) Software programs on your computer, c) News subscriptions, d) Email subscriptions, including retailers, bloggers, and more.

2. Be aware of how much you consume versus how much you produce (consumption:production ratio).

Many people find that they’re spending way more time consuming (reading, viewing, following, liking) than they are producing. If you’ve ever taken “just a minute” to look at a social media feed, you know what I mean. Monitor your usage statistics on your device — and set limits if you’re having difficulty managing your habits.

3. Turn off your notifications and schedule designated technology time.

Leading experts recommend checking email twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. You can do the same thing with social media and news. If you need to rein yourself in, set a timer to manage your time! Also, you can use a simple out of office message that explains when you’ll respond to manage expectations with your digital community or with clients.

4. Set dedicated “no technology” zones and times.

Many people choose to preserve meal times as technology-free. This is especially important with children in the household as your habits become theirs rather quickly. You might also designate a period of time prior to bedtime as cell phone free. And definitely

5. Consider a news fast and/or social media sabbatical

Setting intentional time away from technology feeds your soul. Often, we don’t realize how much time we’re dedicating to our devices and technology until we have an extended break from them. If this is hard for you, start small and leave your phone behind for an hour. Some people find it beneficial to take a week or more untethered!

6. Be where you are, right now.

I’m talking to myself here. This is one of the hardest ones for me because I LOVE a good photo opportunity. I value preserving moments but sometimes I need to just savor them in my heart and mind. Be mindful of when you’re present or not present!

Resources to help declutter your digital footprint:

• Susan B. Arico, a fellow Hopewriter that I admire greatly, writes about soul over cell (phones). Check out this excellent article on “What do we do when we’re overwhelmed“!
• Cal Newport’s book, Digital Minimalism, provides practical tips to help you rethink your relationship to social media, experience the world around you and use regular intervals of solitude to reconnect with your inner self.
• SLOWW focuses on slowing down in a fast-paced world, living simpler, and finding purpose.
• The Social Dilemna documentary discusses social networking in today’s world.