If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent way too many hours scrolling TikTok, getting lost in the Pinterest black hole, or binge-watching videos on YouTube. Don’t get me wrong—I love all those things (especially Pinterest; it’s my happy place 🫶), but recently, I realized that I’m living way more online than in real life. And honestly? It’s exhausting.
So, I’ve been trying to find a balance and spend less time glued to my screen. Spoiler alert: it’s not easy, but it’s SO worth it. Here’s what’s been working for me:
How to Spend Less Time Online
1. Create a Cute Offline Routine
I started by building an offline routine that feels as fun and aesthetic as my online life. Think:
- Waking up early enough to have a slow, cozy morning (Tea + journaling = chef’s kiss).
- Picking out a cute outfit and actually putting it on, even if I’m just staying home.
- Taking walks to get fresh air and clear my mind—nature is the ultimate vibe.
- I also started using CDs again because this way I don’t have to use Spotify all the time.
When your offline life feels good, you’re less tempted to escape into the digital world.
2. Set “No-Screen” Zones
I’ve banned screens from my bed. It was hard at first because, hello, scrolling TikTok at 11 PM is not so great for my sleep routine. So now I turn off all of the screens two hours before I go to sleep. Instead, I mostly read books, but sometimes I want to journal before bed time. But I make sure I don’t use any screens in my bedroom.
3. Find Hobbies That Don’t Involve Wi-Fi
Remember hobbies? 😂 I recently picked up my ukulele again (it was collecting dust, oops) and started playing around with it. I also got back into reading and making mood boards in real life. It’s been such a nice break from staring at a screen. I really love reading before bedtime. But last Sunday, I just decided to read all day long and I wasn’t even missing my phone at all. I was just enjoying my offline. Fun thing is that it felt like I had more hours in a day.
4. Time Limits = Lifesaver
I use the screen time setting on my phone to remind me when I’ve been on apps for too long. It’s like having a mini accountability buddy in my pocket. Some days I ignore it (oops), but most of the time, it helps me snap out of my scrolling spiral. Sometimes I allow myself to spend 20 minutes on social and I stick to it. I have now a better relationship with social media and I just feel better in general.
5. Romanticize Being Offline
This one’s my favorite. I try to make my offline time feel special. I light candles, put on soft music, and spend time doing little things that make me happy—like journaling, organizing my space, or even just sipping tea by the window. Or I just decide to read all day. Or I just go out for a walk and enjoy being outside, maybe get some fresh flowers.
6. Reward Yourself
Lastly, I make deals with myself. If I stay off my phone for an hour, I’ll treat myself to a face mask or a yummy snack. It’s like gamifying my offline time, and it totally works. But I think once you go offline more often, you will realize it is actually nice to be offline. And I think that feeling more relaxed without your screen is already a reward itself.
The result?
I still have a long way to go, but I’m already feeling more present and less overwhelmed. Plus, I’ve noticed that I actually enjoy my online time more when I’m not on my phone 24/7.
If you’re thinking about spending less time online, I’d say go for it! Start small and focus on what feels good to you.
Let me know if you have any tips—I’m always looking for new ideas! 😊
xo,
Photo by Pâmela Lima on Unsplash