A List of Digital Detox Tips Every Solopreneur Must Follow

Can we all agree that the digital age has brought both blessings and curses to our lives? The constant connectivity, while essential for our businesses, can often feel like an inescapable web, trapping us in a never-ending cycle of emails, social media updates, and overall stress.

We all know that the pressure to always be online can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being.

Thanks to my kiddos, I have gone through a huge digital transformation over the past few years. I want these little ones to know me, not me with a phone in front of my face a la Black Mirror. I'm a 90s kid and want my kids to experience what growing up was like without moms and dads constantly behind screens.

I've completely stopped social media (except LinkedIn for work) and only check my email a few times a day. And ya know what? My career hasn't suffered, in fact, I get way more done.

I've gone through some trial and error over the past few years and have compiled my biggest takeaways into the list below.

These points have helped me increase my productivity, and find a healthier balance between my work and personal time.

I hope they can help you as well.

1. Set Clear Boundaries

The first and most crucial step in your digital detox journey is to set clear boundaries between work and personal life. When you're a solopreneur, it's easy for the lines to blur, especially when your office is just a few steps away from your living room (or worse, you sometimes even open up that laptop while in bed!).

I've found that designating specific working hours and sticking to them helps me avoid the temptation to check emails or work on projects during my downtime. Communicate these boundaries to your clients and contractors, so they know when they can expect a response from you. This not only establishes expectations but also ensures you have dedicated time for yourself.

The solopreneurs I work with know they are probably going to get emails from me at odd hours of the day. I make it to my meetings and arrange childcare when need be, but otherwise, a lot of my work gets done in the early hours of the morning and later at night with a lull often in the middle of the day. It's not the most conventional schedule, but it works for me and those I work with. So, figure out what works for you and set those boundaries.

2. Declutter Your Digital Space

OK, full disclosure, I'm a work-in-progress with this tip (don't ask me how many tabs I have open on Chrome right now). However, I have made HUGE strides in other areas of my digital space which I've listed below.

Your digital environment can become a cluttered mess, overwhelming you and making it challenging to focus. Take some time to declutter your digital workspace and:

• Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails: How often do you find yourself scrolling through irrelevant promotional emails? Unsubscribe from the ones you don't need. 
• Organize your files: Keep your digital files neatly organized and delete files you no longer need. This will make finding what you need a breeze. Shameless plug: If you need help organizing your files and tasks, we have an awesome app in the works for solopreneurs that helps them do just that. You can learn more here: https://www.lifestarr.com/lifestarr-app.
• Streamline your social media: Unfollow accounts and pages that don't provide value or cause unnecessary stress. You'll be amazed at how much lighter your social media feeds will feel.

3. Establish Tech-Free Zones

Creating designated tech-free zones in your home or workspace is a game-changer. These zones provide a sanctuary where you can escape the constant buzz of notifications and digital distractions. For me, this is our dining table. No.Phones.Allowed.

Having a tech-free zone allows you to unwind, relax, and foster genuine connections with loved ones. Make it a rule to leave your devices outside these areas, and you'll notice the difference in your overall well-being.

4. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

I'm the granddaughter of a yoga instructor, so you'd think this would come naturally to me...but it takes work.

Solopreneurs often find themselves caught in a whirlwind of stress and anxiety with everything they have on their plates.

Mindfulness and meditation can be invaluable tools in your digital detox journey. These practices help you stay grounded and centered amidst the chaos of solopreneurship.

Start with just a few minutes each day. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Let go of the worries and demands of your business. Over time, you'll notice increased clarity, improved concentration, and reduced stress levels.

If you'd prefer guided meditation, I've heard great things about Headspace.

5. Embrace Offline Hobbies

One of the most liberating aspects of my digital detox was discovering the joy of offline hobbies. These activities not only provide a break from screens but also nurture creativity and relaxation. Here are some hobbies you might consider:

• Reading: Escape into the pages of a good book and let your imagination roam free. 
• Cooking: Experiment with new recipes and savor the process of preparing delicious meals. A friend of mine and I have started a weekly cooking club where we have a theme for each week. It's super fun!
• Art and Crafts: Explore your creative side by drawing, painting, knitting, or any craft that interests you. I'm not a crafty person, but I've started participating in craft creation with my kiddo and using a new side of my brain is actually really fun.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential for your health. Find a workout routine that you enjoy, whether it's yoga, running, or dancing.
• Gardening: Cultivate your green thumb and connect with nature by tending to plants and flowers. If anybody has any gardening recommendations, reach out to me at carly@lifestarr.com. I need them!

6. Schedule Regular Digital Sabbaticals

Just as your body needs rest, so does your digital life. Schedule regular digital sabbaticals, during which you completely disconnect from all devices and the internet. Use this time to recharge, reflect, and engage in activities that fulfill you.

Start small, with a few hours or a day, and gradually extend the duration of your sabbaticals as you become more comfortable. I can't stress enough how refreshing and rejuvenating these breaks can be for your overall well-being.

7. Implement the Two-Minute Rule

To avoid being consumed by endless to-do lists and notifications, I've adopted the "two-minute rule." If a task or message can be addressed in two minutes or less, I deal with it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.

By efficiently handling these quick tasks, you'll free up mental space for more substantial work and leisure activities. Plus, it's incredibly satisfying to check off items from your list quickly.

8. Prioritize Human Connections

While digital communication is a vital part of our professional lives, nothing can replace genuine human connections. Make an effort to prioritize face-to-face interactions with friends and family. Plan regular outings or gatherings, and make sure to be fully present during those moments.

As a solopreneur, you may also benefit from joining local networking groups or co-working spaces. These opportunities can provide a sense of community and support that can be lacking when working independently.

9. Set App and Notification Limits

Smartphones and apps are designed to grab our attention constantly. To break free from this cycle, set limits on your app usage and notifications. Most smartphones now offer features that allow you to monitor and control your screen time.

By restricting access to non-essential apps and silencing notifications during your off-hours, you regain control over your digital life, rather than letting it control you.

If you really want to go bonkers with this one, you can do what my husband did and buy a dumbphone that has very limited capabilities that basically just include calling and texting. This is the only phone he has on him when the kids are around.

10. Reflect and Adapt

Finally, the most crucial aspect of any digital detox journey is continuous self-reflection and adaptation. Your needs and circumstances as a solopreneur may evolve over time, so it's essential to reassess your habits and make necessary adjustments.

Remember that digital detox is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Experiment with these tips, and find what works best for you. The ultimate goal is to achieve a healthier balance between your digital life and your personal well-being.

Genuinly curious, what tips would you add to this list?