Screens of all kinds, including TVs, tablets, laptops, and smartphones, have taken over our lives. We always have screens with us in our daily lives, whether for work, socializing, or leisure. However, how long are we really using our devices for, and what are the consequences?
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According to recent surveys, the average person uses their devices for several hours every day. The average amount of time spent using screens each day across the globe is roughly 6 hours and 37 minutes. People in the Philippines use the internet for an average of 10 hours and 27 minutes every day. This number emphasizes the constant presence of screens in our lives by including time spent on both personal and professional activities.
While many of us recognize the need to cut back on screen time for better mental and physical health, achieving this balance can be challenging. According to a survey on limiting tech for mental health conducted by ExpressVPN, there are notable generational differences in how people approach screen time reduction:
Gen Z (born 1997-2012): 46% of Gen Z respondents take measures to limit screen time. However, 28% find it too difficult to reduce their screen usage, and 12% don’t try at all, despite acknowledging that they spend too much time on screens.
Millennials (born 1981-1996): This group shows a similar trend, with 33% effectively limiting their screen time. However, a significant 25% struggle to cut back, and 17% are comfortable with their current levels of usage.
Gen X (born 1965-1980): Around 24% of Gen Xers are comfortable with their screen time, and only 12% limit their usage most days. The remaining portion is divided between those who acknowledge the need to reduce screen time but find it difficult, and those who don’t see it as an issue.
Boomers (born 1946-1964): Boomers appear the most at ease with their digital habits, with 35% feeling comfortable with their screen time. However, 18% still actively limit their usage on all or most days.
These statistics highlight that while there is a broad awareness of the benefits of reducing screen time, each generation faces unique challenges and perspectives on digital consumption.
Reducing screen time is easier said than done, but it’s not impossible. Here are some practical steps you can take to cut back:
Digital Minimalism is a concept that is gaining traction worldwide as more people seek to declutter their digital lives. The concept, made popular by Cal Newport in his book Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World, urges people to utilize technology with intention. Digital minimalists place an emphasis on quality over quantity and only use technology in ways that are consistent with their values and improve their well-being, avoiding to be controlled by continuous notifications, updates, and digital diversions.
As Newport states, “Simply put, humans are not wired to be constantly wired. Digital minimalists see new technologies as tools to be used to support things they deeply value—not as sources of value themselves.”
The growing interest in digital minimalism can be attributed to several factors:
Reducing screen time is a worthy aim for anyone hoping to enhance their mental and physical well-being, even though it’s harder than it appears. We can live more balanced, meaningful lives free from the influence of screens by being aware of our digital behaviors and adopting ideas like digital minimalism.
