Disconnect to Reconnect: Where to leave the phone behind

In this fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of technology and constant connectivity. Our smartphones have become extensions of ourselves, always at arm's reach, ready to provide us with information, entertainment, and distraction. Despite their necessity in some areas of our lives there are still places where phones are not necessary, and embracing these moments can lead to a deeper connection with the world around us and with the people that matter to us. 

In my book “Switch Off” I had an artist draw images to use in the book to help further expand what I was writing so if people were not taking in the words, they can see it in the images. I can remember asking her to draw an image of a family sitting around a dinner table including a baby in a high chair all on different devices. While using these devices none of the family were talking rather k down at their screens, the baby included. I wanted to use this image as an example of how far technology can interrupt the important connection moments in our lives. This was like a warning image,  that if we do not change our behaviors then the moments that matter most to us will be lost. “Switch off” was first published back in 2017 and now when I look around in restaurants, in cafes and other places where parents and families are coming together unfortunately I now see this image coming to life. Even more so nowadays people are looking at screens more than they're looking at each other and they're connecting with people through their devices more than connecting with the people they're sharing that time with. 

I wish more people read “Switch Off”! That way people would realize in these moments the lost opportunity of connection they could be otherwise getting in that moment. So as a reminder and an urge to put the devices aside there are 3 places where you can put the devices to the side and be present in the moment with the people and things that matter to you.

• The Dinner Table 
  There's something special about the dinner table. It's a place where families and friends come together to share a meal, stories, and laughter. It's a time to connect with one another on a deeper level, and it's essential to maintain the warmth and intimacy of these moments. When we place our phones on silent or, better yet, in another room during dinner, we create a space for meaningful conversations and genuine human interaction with real people and the real people that matter most to us. By focusing on the people in front of us, we build stronger bonds, we learn about each other, we share and create lasting memories.
• Nature
  Nature has an incredible power to soothe our souls, but it's an experience we often miss when our noses are buried in our screens. Places like parks, forests, and beaches offer us a chance to escape from the digital world and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the natural one. I once saw two girls taking selfies and crafted images of themselves sitting waterside at the beach. They didn't even go into the water! When we put our phones away and take the time to observe the rustling leaves, the crashing waves, or the chirping birds, we connect with the world around us, we do things that bring us joy and we create more memories. It also deepens our appreciation for the world we live in.
  
  
• The Bedroom
  Ok do not get defensive about this one. Phones do not need to be in bedrooms! The bedroom is our sanctuary for rest and relaxation, a place where we recharge our bodies and minds. However, our phones can easily disrupt this sacred space. The constant pinging of notifications and the temptation to scroll through social media can interfere with our sleep and stress levels. By keeping phones out of the bedroom, we create a peaceful and nurturing environment that promotes better sleep and overall well-being. Plus if you share your bed with a loved one having a phone or device in your room immediately places a barrier between you both. The device stops meaningful connection in so many ways! Taking this step shows empathy for our own need for rest and rejuvenation.

Being device-free at times and disconnecting helps us to be more connected with the things that matter most to us.

 It's crucial to remember that our phones are tools that should serve us, not the other way around. By recognizing the places where phones are not necessary and consciously choosing to put them aside, we can foster deeper connections, not only with the people around us but also with ourselves. It's about being present in the moment and appreciating the world without a digital filter.

It's essential to understand that every person's journey toward disconnecting will be unique. Some may need a gentle reminder to silence their phones during dinner, while others may require more deliberate measures to leave their devices outside the bedroom. As we strive to find a balance between our digital and real lives, take control of the moments that bring you most joy with the people that matter most to you.

Angela Lockwood