- Americans admit to hamsting digital files by 77% and say they have too many data
- Handling their files leaving one -third of people who feel overwhelmed and anxious
- Younger generations are expected to spend $ 40,000 on sky storage across their lifetime
Americans are facing a growing digital root problem, according to a recent study from Compass Data Centers, which found over three -quarters (77%) of people who are recorded – surprisingly – to have more digital files than they need.
Made between January 21 and February 5, 2025, the vote of 1,000 people revealed digital hamstring is not only out of control, but many are uncertain about how they even start controlling it.
One -third of respondents said that managing their digital files made them feel overwhelmed, anxious or stressed. Just 10% reported to feel confident when it comes to deleting unnecessary files. Although they recognized that excess data can slow down devices, drain batteries and make it harder to find important information, they were not ready to hit the Delete key and intervene.
A costly habit
Digital Rod is not only a minor disadvantage – it can also be a expensive price as stock prices climb. The study found that especially younger generations pay to save files instead of deleting them.
The study writers notice, “Accounting for an inflation rate of 3%, provided that a 25-year-old pays $ 20/month for data storage up to 85 years, they will spend $ 40,000 during their life on digital storage.”
Compass data centers collaborated with expert digital minimalist Kath Younger to inspire and help people clean their digital closet.
You can see the tips and tricks they came up with Delete Digital Dust Bunnies.
How to Declut your data
Digital decluttering does not have to be a huge project. Taking small, regular steps can protect devices, save money and reduce stress.
The first place to start is by cleaning your photo library. Delete blurred shoots, duplicates and old screens you no longer need. The purpose of doing this monthly rather than waiting for years to pass.
Then sort through your apps. Check what you have and what you are actually using. If you have apps you haven’t opened for months, get rid of them. You can always reinstall what you need.
Review your downloads -folder and E -Mail — Inbox. Old receipts, newsletters and random files are added quickly. Focus on E emails with attachments to free up the most storage space.
Consider setting up a single backup system with an external hard drive instead of paying for sky storage. HDDs and SSDs with 4TB storage space are available at a one -time purchase price that is far less than you would pay for years of sky fees.
Plan a “Digital Spring Cleaning” day a couple of times a year. Treat it like cleaning a closet – a little annoying at first, but rewarding when done.
By paying more attention to the digital root you create and store, it becomes easier to control over time. Taking action today can save you from greater trouble down the road.
