BRB, Phones: BSG Shares How To Unplug

Fact: we probably all spend too much on our phones. According to research, the average human checks their phone approximately every 12 minutes. That… is a lot of time we spend staring at a screen. Don’t get us wrong; it’s not all bad: the world going digital means we’re able to connect with the world around us more easily than ever. We get to catch up with friends and family. We get an endless stream of memes. And given that we’re a communications agency, we’re all about being able to make connections with a tap of our finger. But we also like to draw the line between our online and IRL time. Studies have shown it’s better for our mental health and productivity when we regularly unplug from our phones, so we’re committing when we can.

We talked to some of our Be Social sisters on how they unplug from their phones and why:

Kate, Senior Director of Brand Services: To unplug, I just spend one-on-one time with my fiance. He does not have any social media (crazy, right?!) so it’s easy to leave the phones at home to go on a walk, head to the beach or bebop around our neighborhood scouting new fun bars and restaurants. It’s always refreshing hanging with someone who is not compelled to Insta Story every moment. It helps keep me in the moment and just enjoy! 

Sara, Managing Editor: There’s an ice cream shop a block away from my apartment and every other week, I’ll bring a book and just read on their patio. I turn my phone off and just keep it in my purse until it’s time to leave. I’m reading City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love) and it just gives me time away from my apps and actually make progress on my readings.

Ali, Founder: I like to go on a walk around the block with my dog without my phone and just think about the day and tomorrow’s plans! Being off my phone can inspire new ideas and I love being able to spend time with my friends without worrying about notifications. 

Lizzie, Influencer Manager: Best way for me to unplug is going for a long run. I love ending my day sweating and getting some fresh air, it’s almost a form of meditation for me. The repetitive motion of my legs moving and my feet hitting the ground creates a sense of peace and centering, especially after a long day searching through Instagram or looking at my laptop screen.

Nicole, Influencer Manager: Our jobs revolve around Instagram and being in front of a computer, so although it is definitely hard to completely unplug, I am trying to be more aware of how much time I spend on my phone. I love going to hot yoga where I leave my phone at the door and completely disconnect. This feels great after a long day of work to wind down and relax! 

Haley, Talent Coordinator: My ideal unplugging involves spending time with good friends (fur friends welcome too) and putting the phone or computer completely away. My go-to is weekly Tuesday night Bachelorette (soon to be Bachelor in Paradise) watching parties with my girlfriends, drinking some wine and of course, tacos (Taco Tuesdays!). Yes, I said Tuesday’s – to fast forward through the commercials, we always congregate on Tuesdays!

Lexi, Special Projects Coordinator: My best + favorite way to unplug is hanging out and playing with my dog, Tango! No matter if I’m having a good day or bad day, she just radiates this excited energy when I come home and chasing after her to grab her favorite toy frog makes me forget any struggles from my day.

Jess, Publicity and Event Coordinator: Most days I’m sitting down on the phone or my laptop, so to unwind and unplug, I like going for a nice walk in my neighborhood. Days I need to do grocery shopping or want some coffee, I make it a point to walk rather than use my car. It’s SO nice being outside and getting some fresh air + a little extra cardio.”

Sarah, Associate Talent Manager: I’ve recently started surf lessons, which for me it is the ultimate way to unplug because nobody can reach me while I am getting tossed around by the waves. I have a hard time turning my phone off and making time for myself, so it’s nice to be able to leave it on the beach and enjoy time in the water.

Tera, President: To unwind after a long week, I love a long, scenic drive with the windows down and the music up! I am able to connect with myself and tune into my inner thoughts, while being inspired by the scenery unfolding around me. It’s a great way for me to unload some stress! 

Photo by @privacypls.