As much as I love my smartphone, there’s no doubt that they raise some problematic questions. From concerns about social media’s impact on mental health to the very real chance of being so glued to our devices that we miss what’s happening around us, the abundance of connected gadgets has caused plenty of problems.
Can you put down your iPhone, iPad, and other devices for 24 hours? This weekend’s National Day of Unplugging challenges you to do just that. From sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday, it’s intended as a 24-hour global respite from technology. Can you bring yourself to take part?
“[The National Day of Unplugging] highlights the value of disconnecting from digital devices to connect with ourselves, our loved ones and our communities in real time,” the event’s website notes.
“Do you have multiple cell phones? Take your iPad to the beach on vacation? Ever find it hard to sit still for a bit without checking Insta? If you recognize that in yourself – or your friends, families or colleagues— join us for the National Day of Unplugging, sign the Unplug pledge and start living a different life: connect with the people in your street, neighborhood and city, have an uninterrupted meal or read a book to your child.”
Users visiting the website can sign a pledge, which lets them download a free resource kit with ideas for activities and conversations. There’s also information on events taking place near you, or the ability to host your own event.
Are you concerned about screen time?
Concerns about the negative effects of technology are something Apple is well aware of. Its Screen Time feature is designed to give users more control over how much time they spend looking at their devices. For more on this feature, check out our how-to guide.
Have you noticed negative effects from technology in your life? What’s the one gadget or service you’d most struggle to give up, but would perhaps like to? Do you think this whole tech addiction thing is way overblown? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
