So often in my daily life I feel conflicted about whether to document life toward my blog goals or just be present and experience life first hand. As I build my brand, I feel especially torn.

All of these thoughts have circled to a head as the hubster and I head to Hawaii for a dear friend’s wedding. To gram or not to gram, that is the question?

As I debate with myself on how much time is too much I found these simple tricks to make my screen time more intentional.

Limit Notifications

All too often I will download a new app and feel pressured into “Allowing Notifications” – I can’t be the only one, right?! Days, weeks and even months later I still have daily notification from apps I used once (hello Wayfair 🤷🏻).

It was amazing to actually see the amount of apps I had allowed notifications for. Before our trip I sat down with the list and really evaluated if notifications were necessary.  On those that I deemed necessary I then went one step further and carefully chose the kind of notification each app would require. Only those apps with the highest priority received access to my lock screen.

My hope is that by reducing the amount of lock screen notifications I will be able to leave my phone unattended for longer periods of time. I often feel addicted to the constant screen glow – it’s a rush!

Be Intentional

Decide before you unlock your device, why you are logging on. Make a mental note of your tasks and stick to it. Work to keep you mind focused and on task.

By being intentional with my time I have created a world where I can allow myself to be both engaged and unplugged. #balance

Budget Screen Time

Decide how much time you need to achieve your list of tasks, be realistic and then set a timer. I prefer to set my timer for 10 minutes prior to my desired budget. For me it’s all about the warning – and choosing how I spend those last few moments. Allowing me to prioritize my final work, I feel more accomplished come that final bell.

On occasion that budgeted time turns out to not be enough, knowing that it is okay is half of the battle. Evaluate what you were unable to do and work it in to another budgeted session later in the day.

I do find it valuable to not run over the time. You have to respect the time limit otherwise this practice will be ineffective. The more you work with time lines the better you will be with handling tasks in an efficient manner.

Moments are Fleeting, Don’t be Wasteful

There are many times I reach for my phone for distraction instead of productivity. Saturday mornings, for example, you can often find me “stuck” in Instagram Story loops for hooouurrrssss. It’s unhealthy and unproductive but I love it! My weekend guilty pleasure – my weekly check in with all the beautiful people that create my Instagram community. Although I believe you should allow yourself these indulgences, timing is everything.

This weekend I have promise myself to put down the phone and not get stuck. In addition, I promise to not scroll aimlessly, a vow to myself in search for new experience and opportunities. There are billions of humans on this planet. This weekend I will work to make connections, to breathe life into strangers and grow from the friends I make along the way.

Be Bored

Last but certainly not least I feel it is important to allow yourself to sit still, be in silence and perhaps even be bored. In today’s world we are constantly bombarded noise. When given the chance don’t be afraid to just be.

There is growth, peace and wonder in silence. Boredom often opens the tool box of creativity. Take these moments to breathe and enjoy the simple pleasures; a hot cup of coffee, the grip of a loved one’s hand or perhaps a smile from a passerby.

See what there is to find in that silence, allow your mind to play. You’ll be glad you did.

xo,

C