For over six years, I wore an Apple Watch all day, every day, from the moment I woke up to when I went to bed. It was an essential part of my life, even when I was sick, working on projects, or celebrating major milestones like my wedding. My smartwatch was my constant companion, always alerting me to messages, calls, and notifications. But recently, I decided to stop wearing it at home, and it’s been a surprisingly freeing experience.
This change started when I was sick at home and chose not to wear my Apple Watch. For the first time in years, I wasn’t bombarded by constant notifications, and I realized how much anxiety I had been experiencing from always being “on.” Before this, if I got a message or call, I would feel the urge to respond immediately, which often interrupted my downtime or family moments.
I began reading Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport, and it made me reflect on how much technology, especially wearable tech, had a grip on my life. The idea of disconnecting and embracing a simpler life resonated with me, and it led me to stop wearing my watch at home. The shift was remarkable. Without the constant “tap” on my wrist, I no longer had the instant reply anxiety. I felt less pressured to answer every call or message in real-time, which allowed me to be more present with my family or while engaging in activities like board games or watching movies.
The relief of not being immediately accessible all the time was tangible. Missing calls no longer seemed like a catastrophe. If something was truly urgent, the person would leave a voicemail or send a text, and if necessary, they would reach out again. This experience reminded me of a time when we weren’t as tethered to our phones—when missing a call didn’t come with a sense of guilt or anxiety. Now, I’ve found that embracing this level of disconnect has significantly reduced my stress and improved my attention span.
While I’ve stopped wearing my Apple Watch at home, I still use it when I leave the house. I enjoy the convenience of receiving messages or using navigation features on the go, while keeping my phone tucked away. It’s especially helpful when driving, as I can rely on the wrist tap for directions without looking at a screen, ensuring safety for both me and my family.
In summary, taking off my Apple Watch at home has had a profound positive impact on my life, helping me embrace a simpler, more mindful way of being. While I’m not ready to fully embrace digital minimalism, I’ve learned that reducing the tech I use daily can make a significant difference. If you’re not ready to ditch your smartwatch, consider decluttering your digital life in other ways—it’s a freeing experience worth exploring.
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