Updated: November 18, 2023
Originally Published: November 14, 2023
Let’s be real: I could easily be labeled as a phone addict. I rely on my device for work, to stay connected with friends and family, and for my side gig as a writer.
I was blissfully unaware of how much my phone had taken over my life, even though I spent over 15 hours a day glued to that little screen, not to mention the $150 monthly bill that came with it. The wake-up call hit me hard one day when my toddler, upset after a sibling spat, approached me for comfort. Instead of giving him my full attention, I offered a half-hearted response without even lifting my gaze from my screen.
“Mom, put that down and snuggle me!” my tearful 3-year-old insisted.
That moment was a revelation. I immediately set my phone aside, scooped him up, and apologized. I realized I had been prioritizing my device over real connections and felt a wave of guilt wash over me.
My partner was thrilled when I announced my plan to take a break from my phone, social media, and the endless cycle of checking notifications. So, for an entire week, I stashed my phone in the glove compartment of my car whenever I was home. No notifications, no distractions, just me and my family.
To be honest, the first day was a struggle. As dawn broke and the household came alive, I felt an odd sense of emptiness without my phone by my side. I found myself fidgeting and searching for something to fill the void. But then, my kids and I cozied up in bed to read stories, and we broke the family record for the longest tickle fight.
Without my phone, my children were suddenly in my space—because I was in theirs. Instead of folding laundry or washing dishes as a distraction, I chased them around, sharing silly stories from my childhood and practically begging them to help me bake cookies or create chalk masterpieces on the sidewalk. For once, I was the one driving them nuts!
This experience made me realize that while there are times when I genuinely need my phone—like calling my partner to pick up medicine—most of my usage was simply a want. I even managed to cut my data plan in half, which was a nice bonus!
By the end of the week, it became clear just how much my phone had interfered with my kids’ need for my presence. They deserved my full attention, respect, and the assurance that I was genuinely listening. Up until that point, I had been missing the mark.
Phones aren’t inherently bad, and scrolling through social media can be a well-deserved escape when needed; I’ve been there and still find myself there some days. But I learned that I had become overly attached to my device, often choosing it over my family.
Now, I strive to find that delicate balance between my genuine needs and my wants. Moderation is the name of the game, and I’m determined to master it.
If you’re interested in more insights into parenting and family life, check out our other blog post here. For those considering home insemination, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource, and the CDC offers excellent information on pregnancy and reproductive health.
Summary:
This article chronicles my journey of recognizing and addressing my phone addiction in order to prioritize family time. I took a week-long break from my device, discovering how much more present I could be with my children. By distinguishing between genuine needs and mere wants, I’ve learned to find a healthier balance.