It has been proven that constantly being on screens is physically changing our brains. Do you find yourself easily distracted? Unable to focus for a long period of time? Struggle to fall asleep? Always skimming articles instead of reading? You, my friend, maybe an addict. But, together, we can win back some time!
1. Turn on Do Not Disturb while driving
Safety first. Go to Settings, click Do Not Disturb, then scroll down and activate Do Not Disturb While Driving.
2. Turn off some notifications
Do you really NEED to know immediately when you matched with someone on Tinder? Or when you got another email from Victoria's Secret? Or when the kid you met in summer camp six years ago is having a live Instagram?
3. Delete that app
Go to Settings, Battery, and then wait for Battery Usage to load. Click Last 7 Days and it will show you your most used apps. If you click the clock it will show how much time you spend per week on each app. Delete one of these apps. It will be hard, but you will gain so much time back in your life.
4. No photo day
Try to go an entire day without taking a single photo. Just observe with your eyeballs and share with your mouth!!
5. Stop sleeping with your phone
If you're like me, you probably have your cell phone right next to your bed while you are sleeping. It is the last thing you do before you go to sleep and the first thing you do when you wake up. Stop this! Keep your phone in the kitchen or on your desk while you are sleeping. Set an alarm with a ~real~ clock. You will get better sleep and have more peaceful mornings. I promise.
6. Keep it out of sight while you study
Put your phone in a different room when you are studying. You will study better and be less distracted. Twitter can wait.
7. 30 minutes off every day
Put your phone down for at least 30 minutes every day. Don't even click it to check the time. Just think. Go outside. Journal. Solve a problem. Meditate. Chat with a friend. Pet your dog. Sip your coffee.
8. Read a book
Like, an actual book. Real paper and ink. Read a chapter before bed every night instead of scrolling through Facebook. Not only is this retraining your brain to focus, but it will stop you from using your phone, too. And it'll help you sleep!
9. No social media day
Deep breath. This is a tough one. Just go twenty-four hours without checking Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, or any other social media. You will have so much extra time.
10. Download Moment
This app helps you stay conscious of how much time you are spending on your phone. They have options for daily limits, tiny reminders, screen-free time, and insights on app usage.
