I decided to manage my notifications and use an app to limit my screen time. I blocked notifications for TikTok and Instagram because I often receive unimportant or distracting messages rather than useful ones. I realized I would click on these notifications almost automatically and end up spending hours on the apps. I also downloaded an app called StayFree, which provides a detailed breakdown of my screen time and alerts me whenever I spend more than 30 minutes on an app. These notifications usually make me leave the apps without needing to impose strict limits. The app also motivates me by showing statistics that track my daily progress.
I chose these methods because I often lose track of time while using social media. Overall, my experience has been positive, and I plan to continue. I didn’t experience withdrawal symptoms, instead, I felt fulfilled and encouraged to use my time more productively.
Hey Michael, I am glad to hear that by managing your notifications and downloading an app to give you a heads up the time spent on your phone helped. I can see how by not getting notifications from certain apps that are often distracting helped you stay off your phone. As I did not try this option for my digital detox I would personally be curious if removing some notifications would help me stay off my phone.