Creating Boundaries With Your Technology

A few weeks ago (when we had a TV), I watched a kids show with my girls that discussed the reason we’re so addicted to our phones. And if you’ve taken the time to think about it, it makes total sense.

Our phones are not just the place we make a phone call. We use the convenience of text to connect with people, we check the weather, check the time and we check our email. I also use it to set reminders, make my grocery list and check Flipp for discounts. I even write my blog posts on my phone. And it’s SO easy to get caught up in social media. 

I know personally since going through a breakup, I’ve been reconnecting with a lot of friends.  I have two girlfriends in Australia who’ve been incredible and we connect on Instagram, for example. And so connecting like this creates more phone time, something I had been doing way more often than I liked.

So I did something about it. I created my own boundaries around using my phone, and I’m currently working towards staying committed to these boundaries. (Habits take time to break). We get to choose how we spend our time, and it’s much more important to me to be mindful and living in the present moment, than to be caught up in my technology, which can always wait.

So, how do we limit our time with our phone when we count on it for so many things?

Do you have a morning routine and does it include checking your email or text messages?

If yes, that’s a really necessary place to start. You come first. Do things for you first before you give your time away to someone else. The minute you get sucked in to social media the time disappears. Take care of the things that need your attention first.

Getting up with 2 little girls has changed my morning routine drastically. But after they get their vitamins and they’re happy, I light my nag champa incense, stand strong and stretch and I read my positive affirmation board out loud. This way my girls can also hear my positive self talk.

“I am patient. I am happy. I am healthy. I am grateful. I am loved”.

Now I used to have a rule that I wouldn’t go on social media until after school and gym daycare drop off, which is after 9am. But this hasn’t happened in a while. I’d like to get back into that habit, but I do find that I’m connecting with neighbours about summer play dates as early as 6am. So for now I try not to be too hard on myself and just keep the chatting minimal.

I also keep my phone on silent most of the time. This is so refreshing and creates an intention around using our phones instead of reacting as every single message comes in.

It’s important that when we’re with our children, (or with anyone!!) that we’re present and engaged. They see what we’re doing and they want to be like us. So let’s show them a healthy relationship with technology by creating boundaries for ourselves and be mindful of the impact we’re making.

And something to think about…we don’t have to be connected to people all day long to know that we’re “connected” to them. Take back some time and be totally present with what you’re doing. It’s a win win for everyone.

Wishing you more peace, balance, happiness, vibrant health and lasting love.

Sandy xo

“What we think, we become.” - Buddha