5 Things I Learned by Going on a Dopamine Detox
A while ago, I decided to go on a Dopamine Detox. While it wasn’t a complete Dopamine Detox, I prohibited myself from using my phone or any electronic devices.
At first, it was hard. I had never realized how much time I spent on my phone or how often I mindlessly grabbed it for a quick glance. This Detox, however, made me aware of all the time I used to waste.
For an entire week, I challenged myself in this way — and here’s what I learned, in the hope that you might find inspiration to improve your life as well.
1. We Spend a Lot of Time on Our Phones
As I mentioned at the beginning, I never realized the extent of time I actually spent on my devices. Only after recognizing how much music I used to listen to and how many glances I used to take, did I notice the impact of those little rectangles that I glued my eyes on.
It was a terrifying revelation. I had thought I had myself under control. This Dopamine Detox truly opened my eyes.
2. It Activated My Brain
Going on a Dopamine Detox activated my brain and encouraged me to think more. First, because I suddenly had a lot of free time. Second, because I couldn’t rely on the many convenient features of our phones and devices. I had to get creative and find alternative ways to solve problems that wouldn’t have even arisen with a phone. It made me reflect on how people used to handle things before the era of smartphones.
Since I accomplished everything without the help of any devices or the internet, I felt a genuine sense of pride. I felt empowered. This Phone Detox made me realize that I’m not dependent on technology. Moreover, it was gratifying to think about solving problems that could have easily been fixed with a phone, as it provided me with a fresh perspective.
3. Less Stress, More Mindfulness
Without my phone or laptop, I couldn’t constantly stay in touch with people from my life. It was a liberating feeling to not receive constant notifications and not have to worry about immediate replies. I felt free. I was no longer shackled to the stress caused by always being available. This week allowed me to finally focus on myself.
4. More Time
I finally had time to pursue the things I had always wanted to do. Previously, I wasted a significant amount of time on my phone, often unintentionally. As I mentioned earlier, I had never understood the role my phone played in my life. With it absent for a week (although I’m no longer on the Detox), I had lots of spare time. To this day, I look back with a grateful heart to all the new experiences I had that week. Life has so much to offer. Time isn’t limitless, but we can make time for what truly matters by eliminating what doesn’t serve us.
5. I Didn’t Miss My Phone
Although it was difficult at first, by the end of the week, I felt that I didn’t even miss my phone. I cherished everything about my Dopamine Detox — the periods of boredom that ultimately led to time invested in projects I had often procrastinated on, the fear of missing out that faded away, replaced by the joy of truly living in the moment.
This week was an eye-opener. I recognized how much time I squandered by being glued to my phone and how much time I could invest in something meaningful.
What About You?
Have you ever undergone a Dopamine/Phone Detox? Does this inspire you to give it a try? I’d appreciate a comment, a clap, or a follow. By the way, you can give up to 50 claps, just in case you didn’t know:)
