3 Ways to Become a Better _____

Fill in the blank.

Leader. Employee. Friend. Spouse.

Whatever it is, I believe these three things can make you better at it. Hint: They all have to do with unplugging.

Wait...what? You might be thinking, “Casey, you’re a Social Media Manager. How can unplugging make you a better employee? How can you become a leader in your industry if you’re not engaging?”

I hear you. But I guarantee that implementing these three things in my life has made me better in all areas.

DEVICE FREE HOUR

Set aside one hour every night to unplug. Whether it’s dinner time or before going to bed, place your phone in another room and do something device-free. Personally, I like to engage in a creative outlet like practicing calligraphy or working on a DIY Pinterest project. It’s a way to reconnect with myself after a long day of managing accounts on behalf of other people and brands.

JUST SAY NO

This can be a tough one but it’s important. I have a rule that I’m done checking accounts (email included!) by 8 pm. Anything that happens after

that can be handled in the morning. I also do not check accounts or email until I’m ready to start my day. This is usually after I’ve fed the baby, played with her and made my first of a few cups of coffee for the day! Personally, I need that hour and a half in the morning to get my mind right for the rest of the day. If I feel stressed or rushed in the morning, the rest of my day feels that way and results in low productivity. The boundaries you set may look different than mine, but I encourage you to set some.

*Note: Obviously, the nature of social media requires flexibility. If I get a text about something that needs attention ASAP, of course I handle it. Sticking to these boundaries is a goal for when there isn’t a fire that needs putting out!

BE PRESENT

There’s nothing I hate more than when I’m in a meeting or at lunch talking to someone and they are on their phone. I have a sneaky suspicion that others might feel the same way. So, when I’m with someone, I try my best to be present. The key word is “try” because, hey, social media is how I make a living so I do need to be accessible! But, I feel it’s important to look up and be in the moment as much as possible.

I truly feel that following these few personal rules has made me a better person overall. By taking some time to step away from my phone, I’ve been able to concept creative campaigns and new strategies because I’ve hit the reset button. Setting boundaries helps me to avoid burnout. And being present gives me the opportunity to create and nurture relationships. Work/life balance is more than just a trendy phrase, it’s something we should strive to achieve every day.

Interested in trying these tips? Have some of your own? Let me know in the comments!

#unplug #socialmedia #socialmediamanager #entrepreneur #momboss