From Distraction to Action: How to Make the Most of Your Devices

Can you tell us the number of devices within your reach at the moment?

You must have at least one as you must be reading this article either on your phone or tablet or laptop, if not multiple. From smartphones to tablets, laptops to desktop computers, and even smart TVs, our lives have become increasingly interconnected with technology.

While these devices can be a source of information and entertainment, they are also a huge source of distraction that hinders us 24/7, affecting our productivity and well-being.

That's why it's become important to reflect on how we use our devices.

Do we use your devices as tools, or do we use them as a distraction? Do you use your devices as time-fillers or as babysitters?

In this article, we'll explore three tricks proposed by Dr. Nidhi Gupta in her first episode of Inspinar with an in-depth look on how to make the most of your devices.

Dr. Nidhi Gupta is a renowned physician and award-winning researcher. She has recorded under 25-minute podcast episodes that complement this article perfectly. You can listen to the "3 Tricks to Use Devices as Tools, Not as Distractions" episode by Dr. Nidhi Gupta on our website or your favorite podcast platform, Spotify.

Escape & Engage Theory

Do not escape, simply engage. Technology was designed as a tool, and we should be intentional about that. Devices distract us and they often make us procrastinate. The concept of social media is to engage us and to have us hooked for as much time as possible.

With a mindful and proactive approach towards technology use, we can wield its potential as a tool to positively impact our lives and attain our desired outcomes. This is the essence of the Escape & Engage theory.

In her insightful podcast episode "3 Tricks to Use Devices as Tools, Not as Distractions", Dr. Nidhi Gupta elaborated on the Escape & Engage theory in a beautiful and relatable way.

Turn off Non-Essential Notification

It's hard to imagine life without our devices and the convenience they provide. However, it's important to recognize that tech companies have designed these devices to know exactly how our minds work. They have mastered the art of behavior science and use it to keep us hooked and constantly engaged with our devices.

In "3 Tricks to Use Devices as Tools, Not as Distractions", episode by Dr. Nidhi Gupta, she described that one effective way to reduce distractions and improve productivity is by turning off non-essential notifications.

The goal is to eliminate notifications from social media, emails, and other non-essential apps that do not serve any purpose in our daily lives or work, on an urgent basis. Doing so can help us stay focused and reduce the constant interruptions that can derail our productivity.

Buy an Alarm Clock

Alarm clocks are a great way to avoid the temptation to reach for our phones first thing in the morning. It may seem convenient to use our phones as alarms, but it can actually lead to a day filled with distractions.

We are all too likely to start scrolling through social media or checking our emails before we get out of bed when we use our phones as alarms. Right from the start, this can set the tone for the day and make us feel overwhelmed and distracted.

Taking 30 minutes every morning to be alone with our thoughts can significantly improve our mental and emotional health. Take a few deep breaths, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just sit in silence and reflect on the day ahead.

Conclusion

Remember that the purpose of technology is to serve us, not the other way around. If we make mindful choices about how we interact with our devices, we can establish a more positive and enriching relationship with technology.

Dr. Nidhi Gupta explains these concepts beautifully in her podcast episode "3 Tricks to Use Devices as Tools, Not as Distractions".

So, take the time to unplug, connect with yourself and others, and enjoy the beauty of the present moment.