Unplugged Success: Fyle's Journey Through a Month of Digital Detox
Introduction:
Hello, I'm Shishira, a senior frontend developer at Fyle. It was my pleasure to lead the organization of the Digital Detox Challenge in November 2023, a special activity aligned with our offsite festivities.
With smartphones becoming an integral part of our daily lives, the challenge aimed to reduce screen time and encourage participants to reclaim their time for meaningful activities.
The goal was ambitious yet rewarding: slash daily smartphone usage by 70% or aim for under 90 minutes by the end of the month.
The Challenge Blueprint:
Participants were provided with clear instructions on tracking their screen time, utilizing features like Digital Wellbeing on Android and Screen Time on iOS.
The process involved daily updates in the dedicated #digital_detox_2023 thread, starting with a baseline measurement (Day 0) reflecting the average screen time of the previous week.
The Mission:
The overarching mission was not just to reduce screen time but to utilize the saved time for personal growth and enrichment. Participants were encouraged to channel their newfound time into learning or engaging in an activity of their choice, be it physical fitness, learning a new skill, reading a book or pursuing a hobby. Participants had to mark their screen time regularly in a sheet with the below template which indicated the usage over the period
Success Stories:
Ratnika: Being a mother to a toddler, Ratnika successfully kept her daily screen time to less than an hour, showcasing dedication and mindful usage.
Pratima: Taking the challenge seriously from the start, Pratima utilized the saved time to engage in various activities, including reading a book, maintaining a checklist of things to be done and achieving them, proving that small changes lead to significant outcomes.
Swapna: Maintaining an average screen time of less than 90 minutes, Swapna demonstrated discipline and capped off the challenge with an impressive 5K run, highlighting the holistic benefits of the digital detox.
Ashu: With a remarkable shift from an average of 5 hours and 46 minutes to under 1.5 hours, Ashu not only curtailed screen time but also learned to play the guitar, achieving a harmonious balance between digital and personal pursuits.
Abhishek: Inspiring many, Abhishek not only reduced screen time but also found time to read a book and consistently hit the gym, becoming a beacon of motivation for others in the Fyle community.
Aniruddha: An advocate for the power of literature, Aniruddha dedicated his reclaimed time to reading a book, emphasizing the enriching possibilities beyond the digital realm.
Rushikesh Patade: Making remarkable progress, Rushikesh transitioned from a 9-hour average screen time to 2-3 hours in the initial sets of 10 days, culminating in a final week with an average of less than 90 minutes—an inspiring journey of gradual change.
Roshan: Initiating the challenge with a 6.5-hour average, Roshan successfully brought it down to around 90 minutes, exemplifying the transformative impact of mindful digital habits.
Other notable participants include Dhar and Mihir who marked their sheet regularly, brought the screen time down and contributed to the collective success of the Digital Detox Challenge
These success stories from the folks who have finished the challenge underscore the tangible and diverse benefits of the Digital Detox Challenge, proving that intentional and mindful screen time management can lead to positive and meaningful changes in individuals' lives.
At December offsite’s award ceremony, Fyle presented gifts for the folks who have brought their screen time down and engaging in enriching activities. This recognition not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also inspired others, fostering a culture of positive motivation within the Fyle community
Acknowledgments:
The initial idea of Digital Detox Challenge at Fyle was by Co-founder Siva and organized with the help of Yitzhak, Sayonee, and Saurav. Special thanks to all participants whose enthusiasm and commitment made the challenge a success.
Conclusion:
Fyle's Digital Detox Challenge empowered individuals to take control of their digital habits. As participants discovered the rewards of reduced screen time, the challenge became a catalyst for personal growth, proving that a mindful approach to technology can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. The #digital_detox_2023 challenge may have concluded, but its impact resonates in the transformed habits and enriched lives of those who embraced the journey.