It’s so easy to get pulled into spending all of your time online, partly because we get addicted and also because of FOMO (fear of missing out). I have felt very isolated and low in the past and I realised that it was because I was spending too much time in front of a screen. Now I try to limit social media use to two hours a day - an hour at lunch time and an hour in the early evening.
2. Put your health first
We live in a culture of burnout nowadays and it’s so easy to crash and burn. We all wear so many hats and there never seems to be enough time in the day. Make sure you have a strong self-care routine in place to help to counterbalance stress - exercise, eating well, seeing friends and staying hydrated.
3. Don’t compare yourself
It’s easy to see other people appear to be doing really well on social media and start to feel bad if you're going through a difficult patch. Remember that most of the time people are just trying to make themselves feel better by posting stuff that isn’t accurate or real. Work on your own self-esteem and self-love and don’t spend time feeling inferior. Unfollow people that trigger you or make you feel less than.
4. Ask for help
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you have to do everything by yourself nowadays. The age of independence has gone a bit too far! There’s no shame in asking for help when you need it and admitting that you’re struggling. Don’t keep things bottled up which can lead to long term stress, anxiety and depression. If you’re struggling and feel alone access talking therapies or helplines if you feel like you can’t talk to family/friends.
5. Get enough sleep
Sleep is so crucial for good mental health. Many of us try to function on too little sleep. Aim to switch off tech before 9pm and charge your phone downstairs or in a different room overnight so you’re not tempted to look at your phone, as the blue light will keep you awake. Try not to look at your phone until an hour after you wake up. And switch off as much as possible at weekends. Use a pillow spray, an aromatherapy candle or essential oils to help you to nod off.
If you'd like to learn more about Debbie Stokoe and Breathe In Business, her wellbeing business that helps self-employed people to stay in balance via coaching, Netwalking (outdoor netwalking) and retreats, visit Breathe In Business.