In today’s world, we rely on technology for almost everything, from following up on our work projects to talking to our loved ones, and even keeping up with the news. It almost seems like no matter what we need or want to accomplish, we have to rely on our handy digital devices. And while this adds a layer of convenience to our lives, it also puts us at a high risk of burnout.
Let’s talk about the rise of digital burnout and how you can avoid wearing yourself out in today’s hyperconnected world.
Are You Burned Out?
Have you ever noticed how most valuable machines require repair and maintenance after operating for a set period? Take airplanes as an example. Every so often, airlines rely on sites such as Magnetic MRO (https://magneticmro.com/service/engineering/), where they can obtain full-scope CAMO and engineering services to ensure their aircraft are airworthy. And that’s because they know that, as much as their aircraft can handle all sorts of strain, these machines have their limits, and the airline technicians thus rely on proven signs to determine the right time for repairs, maintenance, and overhauls.
Human beings, too, have their limits, more so when it comes to digital consumption. And you know you have reached yours when you start exhibiting the following signs:
- You feel mentally drained to the point that you are slow or have a hard time concentrating;
- You are so irritable that you are quick to anger and find yourself snapping at the smallest things;
- You experience physical signs of illness such as headaches, eye strain, and even high blood pressure.
Given that these signs can also indicate other diseases, it is important to undergo a health checkup if you experience them. But if your checkup reveals that this is not a typical illness, you could very well be dealing with digital burnout.
What Causes Digital Burnout?
According to recent studies, approximately 62% of internet users experience some form of digital burnout on a recurring basis. But why is that? While researchers have proposed several possible explanations, these can be reduced to four causes.
The first is the fact that we are constantly bombarded with one notification after another. While this may seem harmless, each time you get an alert, you spend a great deal of cognitive energy on it.
Studies have identified rapid switching and multitasking as another major cause of burnout. People juggling emails, chats, and other digital interactions increase their mental load. Third, many people spend too much time on their screens without taking enough digital breaks.
And fourth, the growth of digital workspaces has contributed to burnout, as these platforms blur the lines between personal and professional lives, making it much harder for people to go offline.
Can You Do Anything About It?
Just as aircraft and many other valuable machines have downtime to continue running efficiently, you, too, can set yourself up for success without succumbing to digital burnout. How?
Researchers have found that the key lies in the following hacks:
- Set digital boundaries that determine when you can use digital devices so as to avoid excess screen time;
- Take frequent breaks from using digital devices. Ideally, you should pause every 30 minutes to stretch, walk, hydrate, etc., so you can reset your mental energy;
- Prioritise getting enough sleep by avoiding doomscrolling or using digital screens an hour before bed.
Having one digital detox day, where you do not use screens or use them minimally, is also another way to recharge. And as young people love saying, take time to ‘touch grass’ by setting aside time in your schedule for fun, positive offline activities, such as hanging out with friends and exercising.
