02/23/2026
Every Sunday I get an alert that tells me how much time on average I spent on my phone the previous week. The convenience of a device that does so many things means that the amount of time spent on them can vary considerably depending on what I’m doing - creating content, listening to podcasts or reading emails vs scrolling on social media.
As many of us try to reduce our overall screen time, for any number of reasons - from FOMO to dopamine regulation to eye health - I’ve learned some tricks that might be helpful to you too.
Recently my son was talking on the phone with a friend and I realized how bizarre that seemed, even though a short time ago it was a normal way to communicate. Maybe the next generation is cluing in?
Ways to reduce screen time:
✔️ change colours to black & white
✔️ set reminders/timers or use apps that limit time spent
✔️ make boundaries around use (like not an hour before bed)
✔️ reset your algorithms (see less desirable content)
✔️ don’t bring it in your bedroom, use a different alarm
✔️ turn off/silent alerts & notifications
✔️ delete social media apps or take clearly defined breaks
✔️ use desktop or laptop for certain tasks (I don’t have my work email on my phone, still a screen but easier to limit time spent)
✔️ call your friends & family (limit to 10 minutes to reduce EMFs)
There are so many things seeking our attention. Our time is valuable. What I notice when I have less screen time:
- better sleep
- fewer cravings for all kinds of things
- time passes more slowly
- better presence & more grounded
- calmer, less feeling of doom (although changing which pages I follow helps too)
Have you ever taken a technology break? What did you notice? 👇
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Information not advice