The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

In today’s world, where screens are everywhere, managing screen time isn’t just a challenge—it’s a choice that needs discipline and awareness. For me, it’s about staying conscious of how I’m spending my time, especially when it starts to pull me away from what really matters: my family.

I often catch myself, especially if I realise I haven’t spoken to my children or my wife for a while. That’s when it hits me that I’m wasting precious moments. I’ll put the phone down, and that simple act usually sparks a chain reaction. Conversations begin, stories unfold, laughter fills the room, and suddenly, everyone has something to share. Those moments of connection are priceless, and it’s surprising how easily we can lose them if we’re not careful.

My approach to screen time is straightforward—I use my phone or TV with intention. I’ve deleted social media, so there’s no endless scrolling through feeds or seeking validation from strangers. I don’t need the noise of others telling me how to be me. I’m blessed with where I am and who I am, and I try to share this perspective with my wife and children. In time, I believe they’ll find their own balance too.

To me, screens aren’t really for entertainment; they’re tools. Sure, a movie or a bit of YouTube can be a luxury, a treat for a quiet evening. But without discipline, screens can easily steal time we could have spent making memories. So, I remind myself that the real luxury isn’t in the screen—it’s in the time spent with the people I love.

Balancing screen time isn’t about avoiding it entirely. It’s about making sure it doesn’t replace the things that matter. And when we’re mindful of that, we end up with more of what’s truly valuable: family, connection, and contentment.