We’re living in the most connected era of human history. From the moment we wake up to the moment we shut our eyes, screens surround us. We check emails before brushing our teeth. We scroll through the news during lunch. We carry our phones from meeting to meeting. We doom scroll on our socials when 3pm hits (you know it’s true).
We call it “working smarter,” but let’s be honest, many of us are just surviving the noise.
But what if switching off wasn’t a luxury? What if it were a leadership skill?
On the Leadership Unlocked podcast, we sat down with Dan Czura, one of our Corporate Edge partners, to unpack the power of digital detoxing – not just for personal wellbeing, but for leadership effectiveness, connection, and culture.
What emerged from the conversation was clear: digital boundaries aren’t a nice-to-have – they’re essential.
Let’s take a look at why and how we can make that shift.
The Cost of Constant Connection
Dan shared a personal story that hit hard: mid-conversation with his daughter, he instinctively reached for his phone to send a “quick message.” Her response?
“Dada, you don’t have to spend time with me if you’ve got more important things to do.”
Gut punch.
Moments like that make it painfully obvious: our devices aren’t neutral. They’re shaping the quality of our relationships, our clarity of mind, and even our identity. Research also backs this up – too much screen time is linked to anxiety, burnout, disrupted sleep, and decreased connection.
What Does a Digital Detox Look Like in the Workplace?
We’re not talking about going completely off-grid. That’s not realistic (or even desirable). What we are talking about creating space – physically, mentally, and emotionally – for clarity and human connection.
And the good news? You don’t need to overhaul your life. You just need to make a start. Here are the do’s of digital detoxing at work.
Workplace Digital Detox Strategies
1. Role model digital boundaries
Leaders set the tone. So, if you say “take breaks” but eat lunch at your desk sending emails, the message won’t land. Show your team it’s safe and smart to switch off. Check out this thought piece to learn more about role modelling the right behaviours.
2. Create device-free zones or times
Whether it’s a phone-free lunchroom, silent mornings, or a no-screens-in-meetings policies, set the stage for deeper connection.
3. Start with 1% shifts
Don’t aim for perfection. Follow James Clear’s philosophy – start with tiny, repeatable habits. Even switching off notifications for an hour a day can work wonders. Not sure where to start with shifting your behaviour? Read this thought piece for some inspiration.
4. Use tools to build awareness
Track your screen time. Set app limits. Try the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes on, 5 minutes off). Self-awareness is the first step to change.
5. Support and encourage each other
Create a culture where it’s okay to say, “I need a quick breather” or “Want to go for a walk and chat?” The best teams look out for each other’s energy.
6. Redesign how you work
Fewer back-to-back meetings. More walking conversations. Creative time away from the screen. You can design your workflow to support wellbeing.
7. Choose intentional inputs
Be mindful of your media diet. Not all content is created equal. Curate what and how you consume digital information.
The Bottom Line? You Set the Tone
Whether or not you lead a team, you lead your day. You lead your energy. You lead your boundaries.
Your digital habits influence not only your productivity but also your creativity, emotional intelligence, and relationships.
So maybe today, it’s a walk without your phone. Maybe it’s lunch in the sun with a colleague. Maybe it’s switching off notifications and switching on focus.
Whatever your first step is, make it intentional. Because a healthier, more human way of working starts with one small choice.
