OUR SOCIETY DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO BE BORED ANYMORE. IT SEEMS AS THOUGH WE CAN'T STAND TO BE ALONE WITH OURSELVES AND OUR OWN THOUGHTS. RATHER, WE ARE ALL SO IMMERSED IN THE WORLD OF SOCIAL MEDIA - WHERE WE OBSESS OVER WHAT OTHERS ARE DOING INSTEAD OF LIVING OUR OWN LIVES.
Here's a challenge: Refrain from social media for a day and choose to be completely present in the moment. Here are some tips on how to do this:
Limit Your Usage
Believe it or not, people spend hours on social media a day without realizing it. How much time do you spend a day? Every time you check social media, write down the amount of time you spent on it and come up with a total. Make it a point to make this number smaller each day by using social media with a purpose rather than a tool for boredom.
Switch to an Alarm Clock
Instead of using your phone for an alarm, swap with a traditional alarm clock. This way, you will not be tempted to stare into your phone in the morning. Start your day off on a fresh note - social-media free and spend those extra minutes you have before you leave checking up.
Talk to People
Next time you're looking for directions or trying to get a question answered, talk to others. Social media's goal is to make us all connected, however, what it is really doing is making us anti-social.
Replace the Urge to Pick Up Your Phone
You're not alone. It's difficult to find someone who is not looking at their phone when they are unoccupied with a task; whether it is walking down the street, in the line at the grocery store, or even waiting for their meal at a restaurant. Replace the urge to play with your phone by bringing a book or magazine with you wherever you go.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Social media has forced us to think that our mind has to be occupied at all times. Instead of occupying your mind to distract you from your surroundings, take everything in around you. Notice the small things that you don't normally pay attention to.
Leave it Home
There is nothing worse than sitting across from someone at a restaurant who is completely absorbed in their phone and totally detached from your conversation. No matter where it is, whether it is a restaurant or lunch break - your phone should not be with you. Savor the experience of eating and enjoy your food instead of distracting yourself from the activity.
