Talking about wanting to be more present and less plugged in involves expressing a desire to engage more fully with the current moment and reduce dependence on digital devices or constant connectivity. This can be approached by sharing your feelings, explaining your motivations, and discussing practical steps you want to take to achieve this balance.
Start by explaining what being “more present” means to you. You might say that you want to experience life more deeply by paying attention to your surroundings, your thoughts, and your feelings without distraction. Emphasize that this is about appreciating simple moments, like enjoying a conversation, noticing nature, or savoring a meal, rather than being caught up in screens or multitasking. You can mention that being present helps you feel more joyful, less stressed, and more connected to others[1].
Next, talk about why you want to be less plugged in. You could share that constant use of technology sometimes makes you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from real life. Explain that unplugging is not about rejecting technology entirely but about creating space to reset your mind and body, reduce stress, and improve your mental health. Highlight that slowing down and reducing screen time can help you focus better, improve your productivity, and foster deeper relationships[1][2].
When discussing this with others, it helps to be honest about the challenges you face. You might say that it is difficult to resist the pull of notifications, social media, or work emails, but you recognize the importance of setting boundaries. You can express your intention to practice mindfulness or slow living, which means living at a more deliberate pace and being aware of the present moment without judgment[2][4].
You can also share specific strategies you plan to try or are already trying. For example, you might mention:
– Setting designated times to check your phone or email instead of constantly responding to alerts.
– Taking short breaks during the day to focus on your breath or surroundings, practicing mindfulness exercises like mindful breathing or progressive muscle relaxation[3].
– Engaging in activities that naturally encourage presence, such as walking outside, journaling about your experiences, or having device-free meals[3].
– Creating tech-free zones or times at home to encourage more face-to-face interaction and reduce distractions[2].
When talking about this desire, it is important to frame it positively. Instead of focusing on what you want to avoid (like being distracted or overwhelmed), emphasize what you want to gain: more joy, calm, clarity, and meaningful connections. This approach makes your intention relatable and inspiring to others.
If you are discussing this with friends, family, or colleagues, invite them to join you in these efforts. You might say that you would appreciate their support or company in unplugging sometimes, which can strengthen your relationships and create shared moments of presence[1][2].
Finally, acknowledge that becoming more present and less plugged in is a gradual process. It requires patience and self-compassion. You can talk about how you plan to be gentle with yourself when you slip back into old habits and how you will keep trying to bring your attention back to the here and now[3][4].
In summary, talking about wanting to be more present and less plugged in means clearly expressing your wish to live more mindfully, explaining the benefits you seek, sharing the challenges you face, outlining practical steps you want to take, and inviting others to support or join you in this journey. This honest and positive communication can help you build understanding and encouragement as you work toward a more balanced and fulfilling way of living.

