Dumbing Down Your Phone Works

Alongside giving up social media, I also took all the fun things off my phone. No socials, no shopping, no games. It’s business in the front, business in the back, and it’s working.

I pick up my phone less. When I do, I put it down quicker. There’s some muscle memory that wants to access social media still, but once I realize that the apps I’m looking for aren’t on the phone I put it down.

I set up my iPad Mini with the same social media apps I was using, but I don’t spend as much time on the iPad. It’s easier to put down and leave alone because it’s heavier and not as portable. I may use One Sec to block those apps during peak work hours if it becomes a problem.

On top of all of this, I’ve started leaving my phone in the living room when I go to bed, and I’m sleeping a lot better as a result. It gets rid of distraction, and I don’t have to worry about flashing myself with blue screen light if I check the time. My Apple Watch is doing that duty just fine.

If you’re thinking about breaking up with your phone, do it. Make it as unappealing as you can manage. Leave it in another room when sleeping or doing work. You’ll be happier for it.