Make Your Most Tempting Devices Less Accessible

Often, we instinctively reach for our devices out of habit—whether it’s turning on the TV, booting up a gaming console, or grabbing our phones. To counter this, try placing your most distracting devices out of easy reach.

For instance, consider storing your gaming console on a high shelf, keeping your TV remote in another room, or placing your phone in a drawer while you work. You’ll likely find that if these devices are not immediately accessible, you’ll be less tempted to use them. If you do feel the urge, having to make an effort to retrieve them can give you the opportunity to choose a more engaging activity.

As James Clear points out in Atomic Habits, "A small change in what you see can lead to a big shift in what you do."

Use Your Smartphone to Enhance Your Life

Healthy phone habits don't necessarily equate to drastically reducing screen time, but rather focusing on the right applications. You can leverage your smartphone to support your personal development goals.

For example, I utilize Google Calendar to organize my week, listen to audiobooks via Audible, and track my menstrual cycle with Clue. The trick is to eliminate distracting apps and prioritize those that align with your values and aspirations.

Limit the Number of Accounts You Follow

Following too many individuals online can lead to information and opinion overload. The more people you track, the more external influences you face, which can affect your emotions and decisions.

Take a moment to evaluate the accounts you follow on social media. Ask yourself: Are these accounts making you feel inadequate? Do they contribute to unnecessary comparisons?

Instead of following numerous "aspirational" accounts, allow yourself the space to cultivate your own thoughts and dreams.

Rediscover True Relaxation

Many of us turn to our devices to unwind, whether by binge-watching shows or scrolling through social media. This might seem like a way to relax, but it often results in increased stimulation and mental fatigue.

To make relaxation truly restorative, consider reading a book, engaging in a craft, exercising, tidying your space, spending time with friends, cooking, or simply enjoying a conversation. As Sam Holstein notes, "False relaxation helps you press the pause button on life. True relaxation helps you center yourself, live in the moment, and find peace with what is."

Seek Alternatives to Your Smartphone

We often rely on smartphones for various tasks—television, photography, news, and more. However, as Ryan Holiday suggests, "The less you use your phone for trivial matters, the less dependent you’ll be on it."

If you typically use your phone as an alarm clock, consider investing in a traditional alarm clock. Instead of seeking book recommendations online, consult a friend, or switch to reading physical newspapers for news updates. While using your phone may seem more efficient, it often leads to mindless scrolling afterward.

Ultimately, life is fleeting, and I prefer to experience it directly rather than through a screen.

I hope this guide inspires you to reduce your screen time and invest more in relationships, self-care, and focus. Thank you for reading, and as always—stay kind! :)

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