How to Break Free from Distraction: Giving Yourself Permission to Rest and Reset

When Screen Time Sparks Reflection: A Wake-Up Call

This week, I received a notification that made me pause: “Your screen time has increased by 20%.” As a mum to a busy 17-year-old and an energetic two-year-old, plus running a thriving business, I’m always saying I don’t have enough time in the day. So, when I saw that pop-up, it really stopped me in my tracks.

How had I found the time to increase my phone use by 20%? That’s a lot of time! Sure, I work on my phone a lot, and I make excuses for it. But if I’m honest, this week wasn’t all that different from others, so I knew deep down, it wasn’t for the right reasons that my screen time had jumped.

Understanding the Real Reason Behind Increased Screen Time

I noticed something interesting: Last week, I was feeling tired, a bit hormonal, and unmotivated. I couldn’t bring myself to go above and beyond—whether it was chatting with family or tackling the never-ending housework. My motivation after work was at an all-time low.

Rather than accept how I was feeling and giving myself permission to just be, I chose to distract myself. I zoned out on my phone, scrolling without purpose. Now, I’m not saying it’s bad to do that if it works for you. But for me, I knew I wasn’t gaining anything from it. Had I been more reflective and accepting of my emotions, I could have used that time in a way that truly helped me rest and reset rather than just avoid life.

Recognising Habits: Are You Distracting Yourself from Life?

It’s OK if we don’t always realise that we’re distracting ourselves. I didn’t see it until I got that notification about my screen time. Once we become aware of it, that’s when we can start reflecting on how our behaviour is a response to how we feel.

So, here’s a question for you:

Do you recognise when you’re using habits to avoid or distract yourself from life?
Have you ever stopped to consider why you might be doing it?

For me, I realised it was because I wasn’t giving myself permission to show up exactly as I am.

Giving Yourself Permission: Embrace How You Feel

I don’t want anyone reading this to feel guilty or think, “I do that, and I shouldn’t.” This isn’t about beating ourselves up. The reason I’m sharing this is to highlight that we always have a choice in how we treat ourselves—and what we give ourselves permission for.

This next week, I’m giving myself permission to not feel motivated or expect myself to get a ton done. I’m giving myself permission to go with the flow, without judgment. And I encourage you to think about what you could give yourself permission for this week too.

What Will You Give Yourself Permission For?

If you’re not sure where to start, that’s OK! Give yourself permission to not have all the answers. It’s perfectly fine to not know what you need right now. But if you’d like some support in finding clarity and balance, consider joining us in The Membership each week. We’re here to help you explore these thoughts through The Three Principles I share, and give yourself the permission you need to show up just as you are.