Why a digital time-out is essential for managers
In the hectic everyday lives of managers, constant availability has long since become the norm. But this is precisely where the problem lies: if you are always online, you quickly lose track of things and your own energy. A conscious digital time-out helps to break this cycle. It creates space for clarity, relaxation and new ideas. Many managers report that they are much more focussed and creative after a digital time-out. The constant flood of stimuli from emails, messages and meetings can be reduced in a targeted manner.
Taking a digital time-out does not mean doing without technology completely. Rather, it is about consciously taking breaks and reflecting on your own use of digital media. This creates more space for real conversations, peace and quiet and inner balance. Many clients report that they enjoy their work more again and feel less stressed after a digital time-out.
Digital time-out in everyday life: practical implementation
The best way to implement a digital time-out is with clear rules and realistic goals. Many managers start with small steps, for example with fixed offline times in the morning or evening. Others set themselves the goal of only using certain apps at certain times. It is important that the digital time-out is customised and fits in with your everyday life.
Examples from practice
BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) One manager introduced a daily digital time-out of 30 minutes for herself and her team. During this time, all devices were switched off and the employees used the time for personal conversations or short walks. After a few weeks, the team members reported greater relaxation and better collaboration. Creativity in the team increased noticeably and communication became more open.
BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) Once a month, a team leader organised a whole day without digital devices. The employees exchanged ideas in person, planned projects and reflected together on their work processes. The feedback was consistently positive: employees felt more at ease and the team dynamic improved significantly.
BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) One manager used her business trips for a digital time-out. She refrained from using her smartphone in her free time and instead devoted herself to walks and reflection. Creativity and problem-solving skills increased noticeably and the manager reported greater inner peace.
Tips for a successful digital time-out
Anyone planning a digital time-out should prepare well in advance. Inform those around you so that nobody is surprised. Find meaningful alternatives for your newfound free time, such as going for walks, chatting or creative activities. Deactivate push notifications and set yourself fixed times for checking emails and messages. This will ensure your digital time-out remains effective and sustainable.
Even after the digital time-out, it is worth reflecting on your experiences. What worked well? What could be improved? In this way, healthier media habits can be established in the long term. Many managers report that they use their digital devices more consciously after a digital time-out and feel less stressed.
My analysis
A digital time-out is not a luxury, but a necessity for managers who want to be successful and satisfied in the long term. It helps to take the pressure off your everyday life, boost your energy levels and improve team dynamics. Many clients report that they are much more focussed and creative after a digital time-out. The conscious break from digital media creates space for real conversations, peace and quiet and inner balance. A digital time-out is therefore a valuable tool for personal and professional development.
Further links from the text above:
Digital detox in leadership: How agile leaders boost their performance and that of their team
Digital detox - how to detox digitally the right way
Digital detox: Why more and more people are deleting social media
Digital detox: meaning, advantages and disadvantages + 9 tips
Digital detox: tips and checklist for your digital time-out
A digital time-out is particularly important for
Digital detox - the best tips for a digital time-out
Digital time-out: how decision-makers increase focus and performance
Digital detox - tips, advantages and disadvantages
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