“Take a break from your phone and unplug for a bit.” It’s advice we see everywhere like on social media, doctors, and from teachers or parents. The idea sounds simple: just take a step back from our screens, get some fresh air, and reset. But in reality, how many of us actually know how to "unplug?"

When we say we’re taking a break, it’s usually not a “true” break. We might put our phones down for a couple minutes, but instead we are watching Netflix, TikTok, or YouTube. The truth is that most of us don’t really disconnect. Instead, we just switch from one screen to another. Even when we try to give our brains a break, we’re still plugged into the constant flow of information and notifications. We’re addicted. 

Social media platforms and streaming services are designed to keep us hooked. They use algorithms to suggest videos and posts we’re likely to engage with, making it almost impossible to put our phones down once we pick them up. The “just five more minutes” mentality can turn into hours of scrolling without even realizing it. Simultaneously, there’s the pressure to stay connected, known as FOMO. We live in a world where everyone is always online, and if we’re not, we feel out of the loop. Whether it’s checking messages from friends, scrolling on Instagram, or even staying updated on schoolwork through group chats; being offline feels like missing out. 

For students especially, staying plugged in has become a part of our daily lives. But what happens when we actually try to unplug for real? It feels weird. Our brains are so used to the constant flow of information that it’s hard to sit with silence or be in the moment. But, surprisingly, it can also feel kind of amazing. Taking time away from screens can lead to more focus, less stress, and even better sleep. You don’t have to throw your phone in the trash to experience the benefits of unplugging, sometimes just 20 minutes of downtime without checking your notifications can do a lot.

Ultimately, we’ve forgotten how to be fully disconnected. We’ve swapped it out for surface-level breaks that barely allow us to recharge. The next time someone tells you to "unplug," maybe take a real break, leave the phone behind, and be present. It’s harder than it sounds, but with consistency, you might realize how good it feels to truly unplug.