Even though at this point it seems almost everyone needs the internet, there is a clear difference between checking social media pages as necessary and severe internet addiction. If you start to lose interest in other things because you prefer to surf the internet, you may have started to become addicted to the internet. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to avoid spending all the time in front of the computer.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Limiting Computer Time
Step 1. Admit that you are at risk for addiction
More and more people in the world are addicted to the internet. You're not the only one experiencing it, and this problem has become more and more common and well-known. Don't be shy, find people who have the same problem and work together to help each other.
Step 2. Take some time to use the computer
Do not turn on the computer too often in a week. If you have a laptop, place it somewhere easy to remember, but not where you can see it every day. Close the laptop when you are not using it. If your computer is closed and won't turn on, you're less likely to use it. If you have a desktop computer, try not to pass near it, or cover it with something like a cloth.
Step 3. Contact the other person by calling them, not via instant messaging or text messages
Call your friend and ask him to go out for at least 3 hours a day. This can distract you from the computer. If you're still in school, try doing homework with friends over the phone or in person.
Step 4. Use an alarm clock or timer
Set a time limit for example 30 minutes, before you use the computer. Set your clock or timer, and make a determination to turn off the computer when the time is up. You can also create a timer shortcut on the desktop to turn off the computer (do a google search for "shutdown timer" for a tutorial). You can program it to shut down the computer a set amount of time after it starts up.
Each time you log into a different site, set a timer, and do whatever you want in that time frame, then try to exit the site when the time is up. Do this continuously, but try to reduce the time you spend on the site by 5 minutes per visit
Step 5. Make copies of the information you need
If you frequently visit a web page for information, just copy all the text on the page and save it in a file, or you can print it out. This can prevent you from using the internet too often and prevent you from opening other web pages.
Step 6. Try using the computer in the library
With this action, you will not be tempted to visit certain sites. Libraries usually have rules that limit the time to connect to the internet. The library is also a great place to get some quality books and magazines so you are not tempted to use the internet at home.
Part 2 of 2: Participate in Alternative Activities
Step 1. Pursue an interest or hobby that doesn't involve the internet, video games (video games), TV, computers, smartphones, cell phones, iPads, or portable media players
Join a club, team, sport, religious activity, sing, dance, music, etc.. Go for a jog or other exercise with friends. Go to bed on time and sleep well at night. Involve yourself in activities in the environment, such as talks, concerts, film screenings, sports activities in the neighborhood, book signings, and so on. Look for activities that don't require the internet and immerse yourself in them.
Step 2. Complete your obligations first
If you are still in school, complete your homework and schoolwork. If you are already working, do the tasks that must be completed first, not put it off just to surf the internet. Make a list of tasks that must be completed each day and do not deviate from the plans on the list. You can have as much fun as you need with the internet or something else after you've done your homework.
Step 3. Help with food
Anything that can keep you away from your computer for a while can help and increase your confidence so that you can stay away from your computer for longer periods of time. Cook meals for the whole family to enjoy.
Don't eat food in front of the computer! Eat elsewhere so you are not tempted to surf the internet
Step 4. Do activities with friends
Take your friend to the bowling alley, the mall, or the movies, or take her out for an afternoon walk. Avoid places that provide free internet access, such as cafes.
Step 5. Plan a family event in the evening
Instead of watching TV or doing things individually at dinner, enjoy dinner with the whole family at the dinner table, then continue to play games afterward.
Tips
- Adjust sleep patterns. Many people do not sleep while surfing the internet and mess up their sleep patterns. Regulating sleep patterns is very useful because it can make your life more organized and you become more disciplined.
- If you want to find specific information, do it as quickly as possible, but don't sit down. Stand at all times when you are doing an internet search, and don't sit down.
- Make a list of reasons why you would be happier if you spent less time using the internet.
- Head to the beach or park and be at one with nature.
- Do not forget, stop to sleep, eat, go to the bathroom, and clean the body.
- Try to avoid sites that can make you addicted. If you have trouble leaving the site, ask someone else to block it using your computer's built-in Content Advisor or use parental controls to control internet access and computer time.
- Ask friends and family to warn you if you spend too much time on the internet.
- Turn off email notifications, subscriptions, or anything else that might interest you to use the internet.
- Think about the money you can save if you don't use the internet.
- Cover your device with something (eg a cloth) if you are not using it. This can help you to forget about the internet and those devices. It can also help prevent the temptation to use the internet.
- Make a daily list. Add something to the list that doesn't involve the internet to do it.
- Think about the time you've wasted on the internet, then stop following the social media sites you're addicted to.
Warning
- After using the computer for about 15 minutes, get up and stretch to keep your eyes and muscles from getting tired. Using your hands to run the keyboard and mouse for a long time can put you at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome and other health problems.
- Maybe you still need a computer to do assignments from school, college, or work. That's natural, but don't overdo it when you use it.
