Regardless of whether last year ended with you being nice or a bit naughty, a fresh start commences once that clock strikes midnight. And this year, we encourage you to make some resolutions about your technology use!
Tech is our loyal compadre, but it is also a double-edged sword. For one, AI helps us find answers to nearly every concern. However, it also dramatically impacts our ability to research and study information.
So, let’s explore all of the positives that technology can bring to you this year, and how some restraint and control could reveal new methods of enjoying oneself.
Why total digital detox is not realistic
One of the glaring issues facing digital surfers is their impressive screen time. But rejecting technology and all that it offers from our lives is not an answer.
- Generally, tech has become a significant part of our lives, and giving it up entirely is nearly impossible (unless you purchase a flip phone).
- Another issue is that while you might manage to cut down on the hours you spend on your smartphone, you might substitute that time with playing video games or binge-watching TV shows.
- So, the main issue is not necessarily smartphones but how we have started to view scrolling TikTok or listening to podcasts as hobbies. While podcasts or TikTok can be informative and valuable, they don’t necessarily help your physical and mental health thrive.
- The goal here is to develop a plan to reduce your screen time by replacing it with more positive and healthy activities.
Resolutions worth your time
Here are some techy New Year’s resolutions to have for this year. Of course, take it easy with every suggestion and don’t expect too much. Finding the best way to transition from your former lifestyle is the biggest struggle, leading most people to fail at their resolutions.
- Pursue more financial freedom
You may feel fed up with your current position or dream of purchasing a home in the following year. For this, start scouting the internet for better job offers: don’t forget to visit official company websites. Sometimes, new postings are available there first, and you can be one of the primary candidates they view.
Furthermore, don’t forget about the possibility of freelancing, letting go of unused tech, or using an online earning app. Such an application could let you earn by performing various online jobs, or even pay you for sharing unused internet bandwidth. One such opportunity comes from Honeygain, which enables you to share unused internet connectivity, meaning it shouldn’t affect your usual browsing.
- Replace screen time with hobbies
Hobbies are the true answer to reducing your screen time. So, pick up an activity you’ve always wanted to try and begin exploring it. Look for local gatherings with participants who focus on the hobby, such as ceramics. If you’re unsure where to start, ask yourself these questions to identify activities that may be most suitable for you.
- Use less AI when possible
AI tools are truly magnificent in coming up with ideas and answers in seconds. However, while it has become a favored option, it also significantly affects our creativity and general understanding.
Typically, when we look for an answer to an issue, we read diverse opinions that highlight different viewpoints. AI provides clearer-cut answers, which saves time but also prevents us from developing a more nuanced understanding of subjects.
In addition to its effects on our creativity and critical thinking, AI also has environmental consequences. As more people use (and create) AI-powered products, water and electricity consumption increase significantly.
- Simplify life with smart gadgets
Smart gadgets have reinvented home management for millions of people. From vacuum robots that quickly handle the mess to smart litter boxes that keep litter clean for your cat’s next visit, we have seen it all. If you find some areas or chores particularly taxing, look for ways to add the “smart” element to them.
- Review and end subscriptions
Do a yearly review of all your app and service subscriptions. If you haven’t used a product or service in three months, consider unsubscribing. While it might trigger FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), remember that you can always subscribe to it again.
Also, pay attention to email notifications from the services you subscribe to. You might notice a tendency for prices to increase every few months without any apparent justification.
- Improve financial management
Most people are bad at managing their finances: there’s no shame in that. Let the new year bring the new you when it comes to using your funds. For this purpose, a variety of budgeting applications, such as YNAB, Monarch Money, or GoodBudget, are available. Each of these apps can help you deal with money wisely and save more than you ever have.
- Deal with the security of your data
It’s easy to dismiss the security of our data and devices, so this year, try to get your digital affairs in order. A good first step is choosing the best password manager for your needs and starting to store all your login combinations in one secure place. Your next mission should be reviewing all existing accounts and updating weak or reused passwords to stronger, unique ones.
Also, don’t forget to protect your online financial activities. We all enjoy quickly providing our CVV banking details and completing transactions in seconds. However, a single error in this process could cause these details to leak and be misused. If you have avoided shopping at online stores that only accept such information, consider using separate accounts/cards for such activities. Many banks and services let you open as many banking accounts as you like, so you would feel comfortable using your funds!
Conclusion
New Year’s resolutions are an excellent way to reflect on your current lifestyle and identify ways to improve it. While not all resolutions work out or last, some do. So, giving these techy resolutions is worth it, regardless of whether they stick! Consider starting this year with a focus on more financial freedom, less screen time, new hobbies, more creativity and research, and greater confidence in your finances and home management!
FAQs
Why isn’t a total digital detox realistic?
Tech is deeply integrated into daily life, making complete rejection impractical unless switching to basic devices like flip phones. Substituting phone time with TV or games doesn’t solve the issue. Instead, focus on replacing passive scrolling with active hobbies to promote physical and mental health without fully abandoning useful tech tools.
How can I pursue more financial freedom using tech?
Scout job offers on company websites or freelance platforms, sell unused gadgets, or use apps like Honeygain to monetize spare internet bandwidth passively. These methods provide extra income without disrupting routines, helping achieve goals like home ownership while leveraging online opportunities effectively.
What are ways to replace screen time with hobbies?
Identify activities you’ve always wanted, such as ceramics, and join local groups for motivation. Question your interests to find suitable options. This shifts time from TikTok or podcasts to fulfilling pursuits, improving well-being by turning passive consumption into active, healthy engagement.
Why should I use less AI when possible?
AI offers quick answers but hampers creativity, critical thinking, and nuanced understanding by skipping diverse viewpoints. It also raises environmental costs through high water and electricity use. Opting for manual research fosters deeper knowledge and reduces reliance on resource-intensive tech.
How can I deal with the security of my data?
Choose a reliable password manager to store unique, strong credentials. Update weak or reused passwords across accounts. For online shopping, use separate bank cards to minimize risks. Regularly review accounts to prevent leaks, ensuring safer digital financial activities without complications.
