Less Phone Time

About one year ago – it was just as grey and miserable outside as it is today – I photographed musician ENDA. During our photo session he told me he is detoxing from social media, which meant he would still post but not consume.

During this time of Lent I have a similar plan: I want to use my phone only when necessary, not casually checking social media or emails. I do need to post now and then, obviously, as it’s part of my business. But I certainly don’t need to check on a post — let alone scroll. And I don’t need to check emails on the go. It’s not easy – I caught myself more than once not sticking to the plan! Often right after some sort of unpleasant situation, as if to compensate. Interesting!

Katherine Bennett from the church I’ve been going said she is doing the following during Lent:

“Before I touch my phone, speak to anyone, or even put my feet on the floor – I stop and pray: “Lord, this is Your day. Take charge. Lead me. Use me. Help me to follow and obey. Remove any fear or doubts standing on the way of my obedience. Build up my faith!”
This is basically handing Him the steering wheel before you grab it myself!
It’s a dangerous prayer… because God really answers it!
You may find interruptions become divine appointments, people become more important than plans, and ordinary moments become opportunities to love and serve.
Yes, it brings challenge, but also deep joy and unexpected blessing. Nothing in the day is wasted anymore. Everything can become part of God’s work in and through us.”

What a good idea — and I can apply it to my phone detox. Whenever I grab my phone to check social media, I’d better use that time to become present again and become aware God instead.

The other day I read a post about someone who didn’t use a smartphone for 12 years. Scientists found that his nervous system returned to a state most grown-ups don’t even know anymore: continuous presence! How beautiful.

I do notice how digital media does something to my nervous system that doesn’t serve me.
And I certainly don’t want to waste time, mental energy and my ability to be present on something silly as my phone!