Online time out: Are you ready to put your smartphone aside and take a digital break? It may sound surprising, but a significant number of your fellow citizens definitely are. According to a current survey by the digital association Bitkom, 41 percent of Germans have decided to consciously reduce their online activities in the new year.
This article delves deep into the phenomenon of digital dieting, analyzes the motives and strategies of those affected, and examines what it really takes to switch off in the digital age.
The reality of the digital diet
Digital detox, also known as a digital diet, refers to the conscious decision to temporarily reduce or stop using digital devices. This concept of online time out is gaining popularity as more and more people realize how ubiquitous digital technologies have become in their everyday lives.
The Bitkom study shows that the concept is not foreign to most Germans: 61 percent of those planning an online break already have experience with it, and 16 percent take regular digital breaks.
Different approaches to online time out
How people organize their digital time out varies greatly. Some choose to completely abandon all digital devices, although this only affects a minority. Most focus on specific devices or activities such as avoiding smartphones, online shopping, gaming or social media.
What's interesting is that almost a third of those surveyed said they deliberately ignored messages and didn't chat during their time online.
Challenges and strategies
Of course, sticking to a digital diet isn't always easy. Many participants in the study ended their digital fasting early. To counteract this, Bitkom Managing Director Dr. Bernhard Rohleder, to create alternative plans for free time, communicate in advance if you are unavailable and use apps that ask you to take a break after a certain time.
Who really goes without?
Interestingly, the study shows that older generations in particular tend to use fewer digital devices and applications, indicating a natural tendency to spend less time on screens. However, the awareness and willingness to take digital breaks is present in all age groups.
Conclusion
Digital Detox is more than just a trend, it is a lifestyle change that more and more Germans are seeking to improve their quality of life.
While the challenges are real, the willingness of many to rethink and change their digital habits shows a growing awareness of the importance of balancing online and offline lives.
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Source: Bitkom
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )