In the fast-paced whirlwind of our daily lives, finding balance and preserving mental health has become more crucial than ever. I’ve discovered a surprisingly simple yet effective strategy: using two separate phones—one for my personal life and another for my professional endeavors. Now, before you raise an eyebrow and ponder the efficiency of a dual-SIM setup, hear me out. I’ve been there, done that, and let me tell you, the switch to two phones has been a game-changer.

The Dual-SIM Dilemma

Once upon a time, I was all about that single-phone life, believing that a dual-SIM setup was the epitome of efficiency. Why carry two devices when one could ostensibly do the job, right? Wrong. Despite my best intentions, the blend of work and personal life in one device led to an unexpected cocktail of stress and distraction.

A Life Transformed

Making the leap to two phones wasn’t just a logistical change; it was a mental health revelation. Here’s why:

1. Work-Free Zones: With a dedicated personal phone, I’m no longer tethered to my work 24/7. Sure, you could mute notifications or hide apps, but let’s be real—the mere presence of work on your device is like a little cloud of stress hovering in your pocket.
2. Bye-Bye, Phone Anxiety: Remember when looking at your phone felt like opening a Pandora’s box of work emails and reminders? Separating my devices meant I could once again scroll through memes without the lurking fear of an urgent work email popping up.
3. Work Can Wait: This setup serves as a constant reminder that work, much like laundry, is never truly finished. It’s okay to step away and immerse yourself in hobbies, relaxation, or whatever floats your boat. My phone now reminds me that I’m more than my job title—I’m a person with varied interests and passions.
4. Vibes Matter: If you’ve ever dived deep into the world of energy and frequencies, you’ll get why having separate phones feels different. It’s about creating a tangible separation between the demands of work and the sanctuary of personal life, enhancing overall happiness and well-being.

Setting Boundaries

Not everyone has my personal number, and that’s by design. Only a select few from my professional circle have it, accompanied by a half-joking, half-serious warning: “Contact me on this number only if the office is on fire—and even then, double-check if it’s really that urgent, or you’re getting blocked! LOL”

Lemme Share My Experience

Let me share a quick story that illustrates the impact of this decision. During a particularly hectic week, I was glued to my work phone, navigating through a maze of deadlines and client requests. It was overwhelming, to say the least. Then, on a quiet Saturday morning, with my work phone safely out of sight, I dove into a drumming session, something I hadn’t indulged in since starting my drum course. The rhythm and energy were cathartic, a stark contrast to the week’s chaos.

That wasn’t the end of it. Later, I found myself lost among my book collection, each spine a gateway to another world, offering solace and adventure without the ping of an email notification. When the lure of the outdoors called, I headed to the pool. Swimming has always been my way of connecting with a sense of peace and fluidity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

And then there were the evenings spent experimenting with new recipes from around the globe. Cooking has become my canvas for creativity, and my nephew and niece have lovingly dubbed my kitchen “Warung Onty” (Auntie’s Restaurant), a testament to the joy and connection food can bring. Whether it’s whipping up a new dish or challenging them to a game on my Nintendo Switch, these moments of unplugging are priceless.

So, there you have it. Switching to two phones might seem like a hassle at first glance, but the mental clarity and work-life balance it brings are well worth it. If you’ve ever felt chained to your phone, anxious at the sight of your screen, or simply yearn for a clearer division between work and play, consider giving this method a try. You might just find yourself wondering how you ever managed with just one. I hope you can find what is the truly matters for your life.

~ Reen