Try This Tech Detox Before Black Friday Tempts You
As Black Friday approaches, your screen time likely spikes—thanks to early deals, targeted ads, and endless product reviews. While staying informed is useful, constant scrolling can lead to decision fatigue and impulse purchases. Recognizing when your tech use shifts from intentional to automatic is the first step in reclaiming control. If you’re refreshing deal pages more often than checking in with your actual needs, it’s time to pause.
Set Boundaries That Stick
A tech detox doesn’t mean going offline completely. It means creating intentional boundaries. Start by setting app limits on shopping platforms and social media. Use built-in tools like Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android) to track usage and set daily caps. Consider turning off non-essential notifications, especially from retailers. These small changes reduce digital noise and help you stay focused on what you truly value.
Replace the Habit, Not Just the Screen
Detoxing works best when you swap screen time with something restorative. Replace evening scrolling with a short walk, journaling, or reading a physical book. If you’re used to browsing deals during lunch, try prepping a mindful meal or listening to a podcast unrelated to shopping. The goal is to retrain your brain to seek stimulation and relaxation from sources that don’t involve a glowing screen or a checkout button.
Revisit Your Wishlist with Clarity
Before the sales hit, take time to revisit your wishlist. Ask yourself: Do I need this? Will I use it regularly? Is it replacing something that already works? A tech detox gives you space to reflect on your actual needs versus algorithm-driven wants. Write your list down on paper and rank items by usefulness, not hype. This helps you shop with intention when the deals drop.
Reset Before You Refresh
A tech detox before Black Friday isn’t about missing out—it’s about showing up with clarity. By stepping back from the scroll, you give yourself the chance to sleep better, think sharper, and spend more mindfully. When the sales do arrive, you’ll be ready to shop with purpose, not pressure. This season, let your choices reflect your values—not your notifications.