I love the Internet. I might love it a little too much. I spend a lot of time listening to podcasts and using discussion features on all different kinds of websites, especially social media sites. I just love checking out other member’s interests and just kind of exploring the online landscape, even when it’s not particularly useful or productive for me to be doing so.

Lately, this has been more of a problem. I’m spending so much time online and listening to podcasts that my studies are suffering. Plus, I think that I’m starting to use social media in unhealthy ways, like comparing myself to more attractive or more successful people. I know I should cut back on my screen time, but I’m having trouble. Experts, can you help?

Your problem is an important one, but it’s not a unique one. Unlimited access to the web has given many people in the U.S. bad habits. Screen time tracking and productivity app RescueTime recently determined that the typical worker spends more than three hours on his or her phone during the workday. Computers and other devices make that total even higher. Meanwhile, experts worry about social media overload in particular; it’s not healthy, they warn, to spend so much time in that sort of digital environment.

To be fair, social media use isn’t all bad for your productivity and career. After all, social media managers are increasingly important players in business growth strategies. Mastering each new platform design and becoming a master of the social media marketplace could actually serve you well in the long term. The problem is that over-exposure to social media’s worst qualities could harm you.

So why not focus on making better use of your time online? Not all social media and discussion platforms are the same, points out theTUNDRA CEO Marion Riedle. theTundra is a great example of what’s possible when websites focus on the truly social aspects of the Internet. Is looking at someone else’s vacation photos really “social?” If you agree that it’s not, then you might be more interested in using theTUNDRA’s tools, which are designed to elevate special interest communities and connect enthusiasts. theTUNDRA’s founder focused on the aspects of online social interaction that create groups and generate useful interactions. The site’s enthusiast communities are great places to swap recommendations for podcasts or seek advice on DIY projects.

This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t cut back on your overall time online, of course. You’ve found that frustrating to do, but it’s important to try. Experts believe that we spend too much time online and staring at screens, so make sure that you take a break from even the best websites once in a while. Rest your eyes before bed (the blue light from screens will mess with your sleep if you’re not careful), and set up screen-free zones and screen-free times for work and relaxation. Laying out specific rules for yourself will make it easier for you to measure your successes and failures and to stick with your convictions.

Your studies and your future matter. It’s time for some serious introspection and a hard look at how your Internet habits are affecting your daily life, your academic career, and your long-term plans. If you make a decision now to shift your Internet time towards healthier targets while also cutting down on your overall screen time, you’ll be more likely to enjoy a happier and healthier future. And who knows—maybe your experiences will help make you the next great social media marketing whiz. podcast host, or website founder. We wish you the best of luck.