5 tips for disconnecting during the holiday season

With teleworking and repeated lockdowns, our phones and computers have almost become extensions of ourselves.

The need to disconnect is then increasingly felt

So to take full advantage of this upcoming time of disconnection, here's how to make the most of this well-deserved break.         

Preparing for your break

Before disconnecting, get clear on your tasks, try as much as possible to put everything in order or see what can wait until the start again in January.

Because nothing is more normal than a few unfinished tasks before your departure. Relieved of this end-of-year pressure, you will surely tackle them more efficiently upon your return.

For example, create a pre-holiday TO-DO list, don't forget to create an automatic absence message in your mailbox, etc.

You will have more peace of mind during your break

Schedule a real break from screens

With our teleworking rhythms, we are more glued to our screens than ever.

Disconnecting induces a step back and avoids certain stress.

This can only be beneficial for mental and physical health, especially after the difficult year we have just had again.

But going from everything to nothing can be too radical at once.

Take a moment during the day to check your notifications/messages

Personally, when I travel, I wait until the evening to return from my day of sightseeing, beach, walks or other activities.

And if that's too difficult, install an app to help you disconnect. 

Phone Detox for example, asks you about how you use your phone.

Then you set a curfew and screen time. Once you reach it, the phone goes to sleep until the next day.

Taking care of yourself

Take advantage of this suspended time by giving yourself some time just for you, between you and yourself only: a nice hot bath, a walk in nature, spending quality time with family, watching a marathon of late series...

These moments of disconnection will be beneficial for everything that occupies our minds on a daily basis (work, personal problems, etc.)

In a word: do what you love. No pressure, no deadline, no stress. Just relax.

Dare you be bored?

Enjoy the present moment without trying to keep yourself busy at all costs.

Don't be afraid to be alone with yourself

Take advantage of this opportunity to take naps, because the more rested your body is, the less stressed you will be.

Because for some, the smartphone fills a void, allows them to avoid certain relationships, and separates them from boredom.

For some people, boredom is annoying, and can even be frightening. Because in our education or in our culture, boredom is synonymous with unproductivity, emptiness, lack of meaning.

However, boredom is interesting and also has many benefits: it creates desires, develops creativity, stimulates the imagination...

So treat yourself and let go!