Why We Should Not Prioritize Our Phones in Today’s Society – But Understand Why We Need Them to Succeed

In today’s fast-paced digital age, it’s hard to ignore how much our smartphones have become integrated into every aspect of our lives. From social media scrolling to managing businesses, our phones have evolved from simple communication tools into powerful devices that keep us connected, informed, and productive. But should we prioritize them over everything else? Is it healthy to let these devices dictate our lives, or can we find a better balance?

As someone who has experienced the pressures of maintaining a carefully curated image, both in my past podcasting journey and through social media, Ive come to realise the toll this constant connection can take on our mental health, focus, and overall well-being. There was a time when I used my podcast and social media presence as a way to project success and validate my self-worth. I wanted to be seen as someone with knowledge, someone who could provide value. However, in doing so, I found myself prioritising my phone and the attention it brought me over genuine self-reflection, quality work, and meaningful connections.

The Need for Phones in Todays Society

Despite the downsides of constant connectivity, the reality is that we can’t t completely remove smartphones from our lives, not in today’s s world. Phones have become an essential tool for growth, especially in business. For me, smartphones aren’t just for entertainment or social validation; they’ve played a vital role in my entrepreneurial journey.

When I started my eBay business, I used my phone to research products, communicate with suppliers, track sales, and even manage customer service. In a way, my phone became my office, and its the same for many others. From managing finances to building a brand, mobile devices have streamlined countless tasks, making it easier to start and maintain a business from the comfort of our own homes. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about survival in a digital economy.

Finding the Balance Between Connectivity and Presence

Despite the undeniable benefits, Ive learned the hard way that constantly prioritising my phone and the virtual world it connects me to can pull me away from the things that matter most like my children and my personal growth.

Ive made mistakes in the past by being overly focused on the attention I could get through my podcast or social media presence. I thought the more I shared, the more I could gain whether that was validation or recognition. But the truth is, I was trading my time and energy for something that was, at its core, fleeting.

The moments I spent with my daughters, the quiet moments of reflection, and the real-life experiences that shaped me as a person were slipping through my fingers. And its not just a personal loss; its a societal one. We’re living in a world where our phones are prioritising our attention, making us forget what truly matters.

The Trap of Validation and Digital Dependency

I remember when my podcast became more about the image I was projecting than the message I was sharing. The content I created was often overshadowed by my desire for external validation. The listeners, the views, the likes they became the measurement of my worth. Over time, I realized that chasing this kind of validation was not sustainable. It was not fulfilling, and it was preventing me from truly connecting with myself and my audience.

We live in a society where digital approval has become a major currency. The more likes or shares we get, the more validated we feel. But, as I learned from my experience, this form of validation is often shallow. It’s momentary and doesnt build lasting self-esteem or confidence. In fact, it can contribute to feelings of emptiness, as it keeps us looking outward for approval instead of cultivating inner strength and understanding.

Purchase my ebook The Validation Trap to Learn More

Building Healthy Relationships with Technology

The key isn’t to abandon our phones or digital connections entirely but to cultivate a healthier relationship with them. One of the lessons Ive learned throughout this process is that it’s essential to disconnect and recharge to step away from the phone and into the real world.

By doing this, Ive been able to refocus on what truly matters: my family, my personal growth, and creating value in the real world, not just the virtual one. Ive started to invest more time in my eBay business without the distractions of social media, focusing on providing quality products and customer service. Ive learned to embrace solitude, using it to reflect, recharge, and build a more authentic path forward.

Embracing Technology with Purpose

It’s important to remember that technology, including smartphones, can be a force for good but only when used intentionally. We dont have to be slaves to our phones. With the right mindset, we can use them as tools for empowerment rather than letting them control our lives.

So, yes, we need our phones. They’re here to stay, and they’re indispensable in many aspects of our work and personal lives. But we must be mindful of how we use them. Let’s shift from mindlessly scrolling and seeking validation to using our devices with purpose. It’s time to prioritize the things that matter most real connections, personal growth, and a healthy balance between the digital world and the physical world.