40 Addicted to Refreshing for Updates? Crypto is The New Pull Online
Have you ever found yourself obsessively checking your phone for new notifications, even when there’s nothing there? Whether checking texts, emails, social media, or even tracking the most current Bitcoin price, people often mindlessly seek the next new thing. Addiction to social media is not a new concept but rather a broader issue than that. There are new players in town looking to draw your attention– namely, cryptocurrency and its relevance in current news.
Instant Gratification and Dopamine
Don’t worry– it’s not just you. Many social media sites are designed to become addictive. They work by stimulating dopamine, a pleasure chemical in the brain that is linked to addictive habits, which makes you spend even more time online.
Humans desire to feel connected to others.
On the internet, we have access to millions of people without much effort or thought. When we feel disconnected or experience FOMO (the fear of missing out), we inherently want to feel connected again. For those interested in cryptocurrency, FOMO can be extremely easy to feel. The volatile crypto prices and introduction of cryptocurrency in the US government can be enough to make one feel like they need to be in the know.
There’s an abundant sense of urgency when you think you’re out of the loop and even when you’ve been staying on top of the news. The cycle rewards itself, even at the expense of your time and mental health.
The Realistic Daily Impact
It never seems like there’s enough time in the day. Organizing the chaotic events of life is not easy when you’re spending the little free time you have scrolling or checking for updates.
People have been shown to experience poor mental health, such as anxiety and depression, as a result of excessive phone use. While it’s incredibly tempting to learn about the most recent news, what your friends and family are up to, or how your investments are performing, constantly checking your phone can increase stress, anxiety, and moodiness.
Not to mention, having multiple distractions harms one’s cognitive performance. Multitasking makes it less likely that you will complete tasks efficiently and thoroughly. Almost any phone use is inherently multitasking—reading a text while watching YouTube and trying to respond to an email simultaneously pulls your attention in three different ways.
Constant phone use may also be damaging your physical health. Blue light emitted from device screens has been linked to difficulty falling asleep. Less sleep makes you more susceptible to moodiness, grogginess throughout the day, and poorer performance.
Managing the Urge to Check Your Phone
There is a cascade of reasons why excessive phone use is harmful to your life. Breaking the cycle can be challenging, but it is possible.
Some tips to reduce screen time are turning off non-essential notifications and setting “do not disturb” times when your phone is on. Introducing these boundaries makes it easier to complete meaningful tasks without worrying about checking what’s on your phone.
For some people, using their phones is essential to their personal or professional lives. For crypto traders and social media managers, it’s a huge part of their jobs. While it is okay to be connected online when necessary, mindfulness will help you understand your smartphone’s essential and non-essential uses.
Regaining Balance
Technology is fundamental in our daily lives. It’s unrealistic to expect people not to check their phones every day, but some limits should be set to avoid the negative consequences of too much time online.
While some websites and apps are designed to grab your attention, it is possible to regain control. Finding a balance that works best for your lifestyle may boost your mood, productivity, and mindfulness. Taking small steps towards healthier digital habits is one of many ways to stay grounded offline and online.