In today’s world, technology has become a massive part of our lives, shaping our daily routines both personally and academically. Reflecting on my own habits and tech usage, has made me realize that my interactions with technology significantly influence how I manage my time, stay organized, and balance my mental/social well-being.
Daily Tech Tools
In my day-to-day life, I tend to use several apps and online platforms. For school, tools like Google Drive, Google Docs and Notability are my most used resources. They all allow for collaboration, notes, and the organization of my assignments. On the social side, I often use Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Netflix, Disney Plus and Apple Music, which provide entertainment and social interaction but can easily become distracting.
To stay organized and productive, I rely heavily on Notability, and Google Calendar. The versatility allows me to create to-do lists, track deadlines, and organize all of my notes in one place. I appreciate that I can use various formats within the applications, such as tables and calendars, which keeps everything visually organized. I am definitely someone who needs my notes and schedules to be visually appealing and organized.
In terms of strategies I use to keep myself on track, I like to break my study sessions into focused intervals (usually 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. This way I can maintain concentration while avoiding burnout.
Navigating Distractions
To find ways around the “on-screen” distractions, I’ve implemented a few strategies:
- Scheduled Downtime: I set specific times and reminders, which allow me to enjoy these platforms after I’ve completed my work.
- Focus Mode: On my phone, I use “Do Not Disturb” settings during study sessions, and during sleep hours which hides notifications and interruptions.
- Screen Time Limits: I monitor my usage through apps that track daily screen time, allowing me to be mindful of how much time I spend online.
- Tech-Free Zones: I’ve designated certain times, such as during meals or before bed, as tech-free to encourage better connections with family and sleep. This is still a work in progress as I find it difficult to fall asleep or be in total silence.
- Mindfulness Practices: through my learning project I am trying to Incorporate mindfulness practices, like meditation or journaling to help me disconnect from screens and refocus on my mental health.
Hey Kenzie, I like your strategy for studying. Getting burnout is so easy and picking up your phone to take a break is even easier. Having timed study sessions and breaks is a great way to avoid burnout. I also love the fact that you monitor your screen time usage, its a great way to stay mindful of your technology use.
Hi Lily. I am someone who usually finds it hard to focus on my work, especially when I have a screen in front of me. Even when it comes to tasks like eating, I always find myself on my phone. I have really been trying to shift my mindset and allow myself to be okay without my phone. It’s a struggle, but I am doing my best! Also, when that screen time reminder pops up, I know it’s time to put the screen down. Thanks for your comment!