🔌 Unplug
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Dec 7, 2023
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3 min read
Every minute, 485,000 applications are installed worldwide, and on average we spend around 5 hours a day on these applications. It represents 30% of our waking hours. A time that once spent, can never be reclaimed. The question is, are we making the most of our screen time, or are we being consumed by it?
In this article, we will explore the impact of screen time on productivity and provide you with simple tips to make the most of your digital experience. By the end, you will have the tools and knowledge to change relationship with your phone.
Understanding the Impact of Screen Time on Productivity
🌀 The Time Drain
The proliferation of applications on our smartphones and the constant connectivity have significantly altered our daily routines. Before we even know it, we find ourselves spending an average of 5 hours a day, or 30% of our waking hours, on these applications. But can we be sure that this time is used wisely all the time, or is it simply a well of distractions?
🪙 The Opportunity Cost
It's crucial to understand the concept of opportunity cost, which means that when we spend time on one activity, we give up the opportunity to do something else. In the context of screen time, the opportunity cost is the time we could have spent on activities that genuinely matter to us. Whether it's pursuing a hobby, spending quality time with loved ones, or advancing your career, every minute spent scrolling through social media or playing mobile games represents a missed opportunity for something more meaningful.
🧠 The Psychological Impact
Beyond the sheer time consumption, excessive screen time can also take a toll on our mental well-being. The constant bombardment of information, notifications, and the addictive nature of some applications can lead to anxiety, reduced attention spans, and decreased overall productivity. It's a vicious cycle that can be challenging to break.
4 Tips for Reducing Your Screen Time
Now let’s get practical. These tips are designed to assist you in reducing your screen time by helping you find a balance between staying connected and maintaining productivity.
🗑️ 1. Delete "Non-Essential" Apps
Take a critical look at the applications on your smartphone. Are there apps that you rarely use or serve no significant purpose in your life? These are "non-essential" apps that can be safely deleted. By decluttering your device, you'll reduce the temptation to spend time on apps that don't add value to your life.
🌐 2. Remove Distractions with Web Versions
Some applications are highly distracting, yet we can't do without them entirely. In such cases, check if the app has a web version that can be accessed from a browser. By removing the app from your phone and using the web version when needed, you create an intentional barrier that prevents mindless scrolling and helps you stay focused.
🧹 3. Reorganize Your Home Screen
The apps on your home screen are the ones that are most easily accessible and, therefore, the most tempting. To reduce their immediate availability, move them to another screen or organize them into folders. The simple act of having to search for an app can deter you from using it impulsively.
🔒 4. Use An App blocker or Screen Time Management Tool
Sometimes, we may require a little help. For this, you can download an app blocker that will allow you to block the apps of your choice for as long as you need. The most complete tool for iPhone is Jomo, available for free on the App Store.
With Jomo, you can block apps for specific time slots or set time limits on your most distracting apps. Additionally, you can link a blocking session to a concentration mode, and we'll provide more details about this in the following article.
Let’s (re)take control of your screen time, reduce distractions, and maximize your productivity. Remember, it's not about completely blocking all your apps but reorganizing your digital environment to help your brain thrive. Ultimately, the goal is to use technology as a means to enhance your life and make more time for the things that truly matter.
