Photo Source: Tatiana Syrikova
According to a Nielsen study, the average person spends 16 hours online per week. For professionals in the B2B sector, balancing the benefits of technology with its potential drawbacks is essential. Too much screen time can harm productivity, increase stress, and interfere with personal life. This article highlights seven practical strategies to help B2B professionals manage their digital usage, improve work-life balance, and promote overall well-being to help you implement them effectively.
1. Create Device-Free Zones
Designating spaces where digital devices are not allowed can reduce distractions and encourage face-to-face collaboration. A study by Wellics found that workplaces with device-free meeting rooms experience higher engagement and better results during brainstorming sessions.
B2B leaders can start implementing digital detox strategies by clearly communicating the purpose of office meeting rooms and break areas to your team and provide alternative tools, like whiteboards, for discussions.
The company can slowly but surely integrate the habit on creating device- free zones with signage and by encouraging the team to provide feedback on its effectiveness to create a healthy company culture.
2. Incorporate Mindful Breaks
Frequent, intentional breaks from screens can improve focus and reduce stress. Research published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology showed that short breaks during the workday can enhance cognitive performance and employee well-being.
Take five-minute breaks every hour for activities like stretching, light physical exercise, or deep breathing. Encourage outdoor time where possible, using New Zealand’s natural environment to reset mentally. Another mental health-friendly alternative is for B2B companies to start implementing Pomodoro Technique which can help manage work intervals and break times effectively.
3. Set Boundaries for Email Usage
For B2B professionals or leaders the habit of constantly checking emails can be hard to do, the downside of this habit can lead to fragmented attention and unnecessary stress. A report by BetterUp suggests that limiting email use to specific time blocks can improve focus and create a more relaxed workday.
It would be best for you to designate specific times each day for checking and responding to emails. You can use scheduling tools like Boomerang to automate replies and ensure that urgent communications are addressed promptly without constant monitoring. Another alternative is to share your new schedule with colleagues to set expectations.
4. Adopt Tech-Free Lunch Breaks
Making lunch a device-free period allows professionals to recharge and improve interpersonal connections. A survey by CapsuleNZ revealed that employees who avoided devices during meals felt more refreshed and engaged in the afternoon.
Encourage team-wide lunch breaks as an opportunity for informal networking or personal relaxation. B2B leaders can provide communal spaces free from screens, offering books, puzzles, or other activities as alternatives.
5. Leverage Digital Well-Being Tools
Apps and built-in smartphone features can help monitor and reduce screen time. Data from Wellics shows that 48% of professionals using such tools report greater awareness and improved digital habits within a month.
Use apps like Digital Wellbeing (Android) or Screen Time (iOS) to track and limit app usage. Set daily screen time caps or activate focus modes during work hours to filter out non-essential notifications. Periodically review reports to assess progress and adjust settings.
6. Establish Evening Cut-Offs for Screens
Excessive screen time at night can disrupt sleep and increase stress levels. Studies suggest that avoiding screens for an hour before bedtime improves sleep quality by reducing blue light exposure and mental stimulation.
Set a consistent time in the evening to switch off work-related screens and engage in offline activities such as reading, family interactions, or mindfulness exercises. Apps like f.lux or Night Shift can help dim screens and reduce blue light exposure if avoidance is not feasible.
7. Organise Digital Detox Challenges for Teams
Group challenges can help create a supportive environment for adopting healthier habits. Research from the Workplace Well-Being Index 2023 shows that team-led initiatives increase participation and long-term adherence to digital detox practices.
Plan activities like a “No Work Email Weekend” or “Tech-Free Friday Lunches.” offer incentives such as vouchers or team recognition for successful participation. It would be best for team members to share progress and tips in team meetings to maintain engagement and motivation.
Conclusion
The goal of a digital detox is not to eliminate technology but to create a healthier relationship with it. Start small by adopting one or two strategies from establishing evening cut-offs for screens to setting boundaries on emails , then expand as these habits become part of your routine. B2B professionals in New Zealand can improve productivity, reduce stress, and achieve a better work-life balance by implementing these practices.