Mid-Year Review: 30-Day Info Diet
Embark on a 30-Day Information Diet Adventure
Unsurprisingly, my mid-year review helped reveal my overconsumption of media and information. It’s been creeping back up since my last Digital Detox at the beginning of 2023, and past experience has proven to me that getting a handle on my media consumption will help reduce info overload, increase focus, and create a healthier relationship with technology. So, I’m kicking off the second half of 2023 with a 30-Day Information Diet which involves intentionally limiting my exposure to excessive information and consuming content more mindfully. Would you like to join me in feeling refreshed and rejuvenated? I thought so. Let’s do this.
Here’s our adventure guide to help us embark on a 30-Day Information Diet:
Step 1: Set Your Goals
Why are you doing this? Get clear, set your goals, and make it fun. Picture yourself as a digital superhero, seeking to conquer distractions, boost productivity, and unlock your mental well-being. Clearly define your goals to keep yourself motivated throughout this epic adventure. I will be Crone on the Throne: Ruler of my Digital Domain. (I’ve played the Guide on the Side and the Sage on the Stage, so Crone on the Throne is my new super-hero persona.)
Step 2: Assess Current Consumption
Suspend judgment and closely examine what you have been consuming and when. Look into your habits and identify those sneaky sources of excessive information. Like the social media bottomless scroll, the never-ending news app, or even those email newsletters that somehow multiply like rabbits. Spot the valuable ones and the energy drainers.
Step 3: Practice Essentialism
Now, let’s identify the essentials. Imagine yourself as a digital archaeologist, searching for those hidden treasures of knowledge. Determine which sources are vital for your work, personal growth, or well-being. Think professional newsletters, educational platforms, or trusted news outlets. These gems will guide your journey.
Step 4: Cut and Curate Content
Curate your digital haven like a gallery director, carefully choosing the best pieces for your online space. Unsubscribe from unnecessary newsletters, unfollow those accounts that bring more negativity than joy and declutter your digital surroundings. Kick out those pesky distractions that derail your focus. Create an environment that inspires and supports your goals.
Step 5: Set Boundaries
Most of us need more boundaries. Establish clear limits and schedule your information consumption like the Crone Queen. Designate specific times for email, social media, or news updates. You can even set up a friendly challenge with yourself, like a daily time limit for each activity. Remember, it’s all about balance. Screen Time and other digital apps can support you in setting time limits. Use them.
Step 6: Practice Presence
Now it’s time to be a mindful information connoisseur. Before indulging in an article or clicking on a link, ask yourself if it aligns with your goals or adds genuine value to your life. Seek out high-quality, meaningful content that feeds your mind and soul. You’re in control of what you consume, so choose wisely. Practicing presence sounds easy, but for most of us, that critical awareness and pause button are a struggle to implement. Be kind to yourself as you get the hang of this.
Step 7: Alternative Activities
Here’s the real key: having a thorough list of what you will choose to do instead of consuming. Swap out your excessive information consumption with activities that light up your life. Get lost in a captivating book, dive into mindfulness or meditation, explore new hobbies, sweat it out with some exercise, make art, or enjoy time with your friends and loved ones. The possibilities are endless. You need to be prepared with options.
Step 8: Reflect and Celebrate
Reflect and celebrate your progress. Take moments during your 30-day adventure to notice the positive changes. Feel the power of improved focus, heightened productivity, and overall well-being. Pay attention to how this digital detox makes you feel. You’re a superhero in the making.
Note: You may experience withdrawal symptoms. One of the classics is the constant urge to check your notifications and grab your phone like it’s a long-lost friend. Restlessness and a touch of anxiety can creep in because we’re so used to being digitally stimulated all the time. It’s like there’s this void begging to be filled. Some folks may struggle with focusing or feel disconnected from the world. Without that constant stream of information and social media updates, life can feel quiet. Watch out for those mood swings and irritability. Adjusting to the absence of instant gratification can be a challenge. Practice patience – these symptoms usually fade away, and you’ll start noticing all the fantastic perks of improved focus, better relationships, and a heightened sense of mindfulness.
Remember, an information diet isn’t about cutting yourself off from the world. It’s about finding that sweet spot of intentional and mindful consumption. You’re creating a healthy balance that keeps you informed without overwhelming or distracting you. Now go forth, embrace the fun, and let the digital detox magic begin.
Need more support with your Information Diet? Check out my 7-Day Digital Detox Challenge and reclaim your time and attention.
Hi! I’m PB. I’m a certified hypnosis practitioner specializing in habit change, digital detox, divine finances, high performance, spiritual journeys, and more.
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