Living Intentionally in a Tech-Driven World: My Journey to Balance
How Small Changes and Big Ideas Helped Me Reclaim My Time, Focus, and Mental Clarity
Embracing a Balanced Life in a Tech-Driven World
In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed1, especially when we spend hours mindlessly scrolling through screens, allowing our brains to switch off. I’ve found myself in that situation more times than I’d like to admit. Despite trying various digital detox strategies, I would inevitably get sucked back into the endless loop of content as soon as I watched a single video. The cycle was exhausting, both mentally and physically.
I realized that the key wasn’t just about eliminating technology altogether but rather finding a way to use it more intentionally. One small change that had a significant impact was deciding to leave my Bluetooth earplugs at home. This simple act drastically reduced the time I spent on my phone, both at work and during my free time. As a result, my productivity soared, and I noticed a marked improvement in my mental health.
Creating a Morning Routine for Mental Clarity
One of the biggest changes I made was in my morning routine. Instead of reaching for my phone to watch videos the moment I woke up, I now start my day with a cold shower, followed by listening to an audiobook. The cold shower jolts me awake, sharpening my focus and energy for the day ahead. This routine has been transformative, helping me to wake up with a clear mind, free from the fog that often accompanied my previous habits. It’s a small change, but it sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Physical exercise has also become a crucial part of my daily routine. I work out six times a week, alternating between gym sessions and running. Exercise has always been known to boost both physical and mental health, but for me, it also serves as a powerful reminder to stay present and grounded, rather than getting lost in the virtual world.
I’m not perfect, and there are still times when I find myself using my phone more than I’d like. But by focusing on using it only when necessary, I’ve made significant progress in reclaiming my time and attention. Reading books has also played a crucial role in this journey, offering me both knowledge and a much-needed break from screens.
Inspiration and Guidance from Books and Mentors
Throughout this process, certain books and individuals have provided me with the guidance and inspiration I needed to make lasting changes. "The 10X Rule" by Grant Cardone helped me clearly define my goals, and the act of writing them down keeps me focused and on track. Darren Hardy’s "The Compound Effect" taught me that every small habit matters in the long run, reinforcing the importance of daily discipline.
In addition to these books, I’ve found great value in the teachings of Jordan Peterson, Andrew Huberman, and Alex Hormozi. Their beliefs and ways of living have influenced my own approach to life. Perhaps most importantly, my faith has become a cornerstone of my journey. Although I once dismissed Christianity, I’ve recently experienced a 180-degree turn in my beliefs. The principles of Christianity and Stoicism have brought me a sense of peace and purpose, helping me view life through a different lens.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Forward
The challenges of avoiding mindless scrolling are real, especially when multi-billion-dollar companies are competing for our attention with sophisticated strategies. These traps are everywhere, making it difficult to escape once we’ve fallen into one. For years, I struggled to limit my social media usage and often failed. But with the changes I’ve made—both big and small—I’m finally starting to see progress.
It’s important to recognize that technology itself isn’t inherently bad. It has brought us countless benefits, yet many people believe it’s to blame for the shallow relationships and procrastination that plague our society. The truth is, the fault lies within us. Just as sugar isn’t responsible for obesity—it’s our overconsumption of it—technology isn’t to blame for our lack of meaningful connections. It’s how we choose to use it.
For anyone looking to make a change in their life, I recommend starting with one simple action: slow down and let your brain think. Take a walk without your phone or any other digital device. Allow yourself to be present in the moment, free from distractions.
A Journey of Growth and Strength
As a master’s graduate in digital application and innovation, I deeply appreciate the immense potential that technology offers. Currently, I work in a family business, but my ultimate aspiration is to build my own venture someday. I firmly believe that true strength—both physical and mental—emerges from facing and overcoming hardship. By embracing challenges and making intentional choices, we can create a life that is truly fulfilling—one where we harness technology to enhance our experiences rather than letting it dictate our lives.
Ultimately, living differently in the digital age isn’t about rejecting technology outright. It’s about striking a balance, being purposeful in our actions, and shaping a life that reflects our core values and goals. My journey is ongoing, and with each step, I move closer to the life I aspire to—a life where I am in control of my time, my focus, and my future.
If you’re on a similar path or simply seeking inspiration to live more intentionally in a tech-driven world, I invite you to subscribe to this newsletter. Join a community of like-minded individuals committed to finding balance and embracing the real over the virtual. Together, we can share our stories, support each other’s growth, and build lives that are richer, more meaningful, and truly our own.
This essay was inspired by a call from Ruth Gaskovski’s brilliant publication.