Alright, let’s be honest. We’re in marketing and therefore we live, breathe, and sometimes even dream in digital. Whether it’s tracking campaign metrics, scheduling posts, or chasing those elusive engagement rates, we digital marketers are always switched on. But here’s the truth, for our mental health and wellbeing we need to unplug and switch off.

But have you ever thought that taking a break from screens might actually make us better at our jobs? And when we say taking a break, we mean switching off, not taking even a sneak peek!

1. Your Brain Needs a Reboot Too

We update our apps, refresh our feeds, and optimise campaigns, so why don’t we refresh our brains too? Constant digital stimulation can lead to brain drain or worse, burnout, and in marketing, no one wants to be the one who accidentally overspends on their ads or posts from the wrong brand account (we’ve all been close, and we’ve witnessed disasters).

Stepping away from digital helps reset creativity and regain focus.

2. Ditch the Chat and Get Talking!

Remember human interaction? Studies show that face-to-face conversations help improve communication skills, reduce stress, and boost happiness. It’s something we witness at the events we run – teams coming together, networking, sharing stories and celebrating.

3. Sleep: The Secret Weapon of Productivity

Blue light from screens messes with our sleep cycles, and let’s be honest, “one more scroll” before bed is never just one more scroll. A proper break from screens (especially before bedtime) improves sleep quality, which in turn makes us more productive, less grumpy, and generally better humans. We speak from experience!

4. Your Thumbs Deserve a Rest

We’re all guilty of aggressive scrolling, quick-fire Slack replies, and instant response emails at lightning speed. A digital detox is the perfect excuse to give those overworked thumbs (and keypads) a break. Recipients will wait, and probably enjoy the chance for a break themselves.

5. Creativity Happens When You Look Up

Ever had a brilliant idea while in the shower? That’s because your brain gets creative when it’s not overloaded with information. A digital detox allows your mind to wander and generate those game-changing ideas. Who knows? Your next award-winning campaign might come while you’re away from a screen!

So, How Do You Unplug Without Panic?

Disconnecting from the digital world when your job literally revolves around it can be terrifying. But even small steps can make a difference:

• Set screen-free hours: Start with 30 minutes before bed (baby steps!).
• Take real breaks: Walk, read, or actually enjoy your coffee without checking emails, messages or, dare we say it, social media.
• Use Do Not Disturb: Your notifications can wait. We promise.
• Try a weekend challenge: No social media for 24 hours. Scary? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
• Holiday means holiday: Leave the laptop and the work phone at home, and your personal phone, well, emergencies and photos only! It’s time to enjoy the view and the moment!

Taking a break from digital isn’t about giving it up completely,  it’s about recharging so you can come back sharper, more creative, and ready to take on the next big thing (like, you know, winning an award). So go on, give switching off and unplugging a try

How do you take time to unplug? However it is, try it now!