Do you need a digital detox?

With so many people currently working from home (WFH) and carrying out meetings on virtual platforms, the concept of a digital detox has never been more pertinent. For many businesses, a ‘digital detox’, the idea of switching off all digital sources – from mobile phones to email and the internet – is scary to say the least. What if a client’s urgent request goes unanswered? What if a deadline is missed? However, the results might be surprising.

Sleep tight

Media and telecoms regulator OFCOM has found the amount of time people spend online is causing sleep deprivation. Meanwhile, another report from Deloitte shows that 1 in 3 adults check their smartphone in the middle of the night.

Take a break

The level of reliance on IT has never been higher. However, the impact on productivity and wellbeing needs to be considered too. Your team might need to be reminded to take a break from the screen. There is a growing concern over the amount of time that people are spending plugged in and online. For obvious reasons, this is currently higher than ever.

Value in traditional methods

While a ‘digital detox’ may feel counter-intuitive at the moment, it is worth considering other ways to connect with your employees and customers. Increased face-to-face contact is not possible right now, but it might be interesting to challenge your team to see what other ways you can effectively communicate. The old-fashioned method of picking up the phone, or even the more outmoded principle of writing – and posting – a physical letter, might have a greater impact than you realise. If nothing else, it will give people a short break from the screen.