Today, Gena shares her personal experience of dealing with the chaos that ensued when her phone broke down. She reflects on our heavy reliance on smartphones and how they have become extensions of ourselves, often distracting us from real-life interactions and experiences. Gena encourages listeners to embrace the opportunity for offline living, suggesting that being without a phone can lead to stress relief and personal growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS Many people are highly reliant on their smartphones for daily tasks, including remembering phone numbers and staying connected, which can lead to chaos when a phone breaks down. Being without a phone can provide a chance to recharge and engage in activities that promote well-being, such as reading, spending time in nature, or enjoying hobbies without digital distractions. Real-life interactions and experiences occur outside of our phones. It's important to recognise that meaningful connections and activities can happen without constant digital engagement. Individuals can intentionally carve out time away from their phones, even without a breakdown, by setting aside an hour each day to disconnect and focus on activities that bring joy and relaxation. Regularly taking time away from digital devices can lead to reduced stress, a calmer nervous system, and a greater appreciation for the present moment, ultimately enhancing overall well-being. BEST MOMENTS "Aren't we too reliant on our phones? Being without a phone could turn out two ways for you." "Life happens outside of your phone. It's in the physical interactions you can have." "You can try for one hour a day to put your phone on flight mode... and go do the other stuff." "You don't need to wait for your phone to break down in order to arrange some analog time off for yourself." "If you do this consistently... you will notice how with time, you become more and more relaxed." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/