- Phones and technology are everywhere. Phones can be an important and useful tool, but when you don’t have the balance and self control of knowing when it’s appropriate or not, it can be hard to put the phone down. I myself struggle with balancing my phone usage with real life, but these tips have helped me to become a better, more present person.
- Use the Do Not Disturb mode
Using the “Do Not Disturb” mode, otherwise known as DND, can be one of the most useful modes to get things done. If you pick your phone up you can see the time still, but you won’t be tempted by seeing notifications on your lock screen. You can send special DND modes too that allow certain people such as a parent or guardian to bypass DND mode in case of emergency.
- Out of sight, out of mind
When you remove the phone from your sight line it allows you to forget about it for a little while, which ,in my opinion, is a very refreshing feeling. Some places to put your phone are in a bag, a desk drawer, or a different room.
- Experiment with new hobbies
Trying a new hobby will help you to pass free time with a non-electronic, fulfilling new skill. Some ideas include reading, crocheting, painting, drawing, running or any form of exercise, or making jewelry.
- Hold each other accountable
When hanging out with friends many people can get sucked into the online world when they are doing a quick time check. Hold each other accountable by gently urging them to put their phone away. You can also create a “phone daycare” and place your phones in there to keep them out of sight out of mind.
- Try a public study spot
When you need to study, try a public place like the library if you can’t focus at home without your phone distracting you. Most people don’t go to the library to scroll on their phone, so seeing other people there, not on their phones will help you to put the phone down and focus.
- Create ”No Phone Zones”
Creating “No Phone Zones” in your house, such as your dining room, will help you to be more present with your loved ones. Another spot I highly recommend making a “No Phone Zone” is your bed. I have found that removing my phone from my bed has improved my sleep and helped me to fall asleep much easier and improve the quality of my sleep.
- Set aside phone times
We all enjoy our phones, and learning when it’s appropriate to use them is important. Setting aside times to use your phone is important such as allowing yourself half an hour of phone time when you get home. You can set time restrictions and time limits on different apps to help you stick to your phone usage goals.
