Cell phones, tablets, smart watches, computers – the use of technology surrounds us. Undoubtedly, the advancement of technology has significantly improved our lives and simplified communication.

Thanks to the easily accessible option of virtual calls we are no longer bound by physical limitations to connect with others, access education and conduct business.

Consequently, many of us spend a disproportionate amount of time in front of a screen. According to data from App Annie, an app analytics firm, Americans average about 4 hours a day on their mobile devices which doesn’t include watching television and time spent on a computer. 

Technology undeniably helped us cope during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Whether it was for purchasing essentials through online retailers, video calls to help us stay in touch with loved ones, or accessing medical providers when physical distancing and quarantine was necessary – life would have been an even bigger challenge without technology.

As we move forward and gradually shift back into “life after COVID”, now would be a good time to assess our screen time habits. The Gottman Institute created a useful list of questions to help guide the process.

While eliminating the use of technology/screen time altogether is unnecessary and unrealistic for most people, carefully evaluating our relationship with it to determine where healthy adjustments can be made could serve a valuable purpose. 

Written by: Michelle Rathburn