Sometimes, I feel this overwhelming urge to hurl my phone against the wall and watch it shatter into eternal darkness.
After all, that would make quitting easy, right?
But then panic sets in. What if Hannah needs to reach me urgently, or I need Google Maps, or have to pay for my shopping? Oh Christ, what have I done?
Sometimes I’ll opt to just leave my phone in the kitchen and come up to work, but then four minutes later, I find myself scurrying down to get it because I need a four-digit PIN texted to my phone to access my emails.
It’s hard to even have a trial separation, let alone hit the kill switch.
I'm not just battling my phone addiction; I'm at war with it, and this BlackoutCard business is a crucial front in that war.
This entire website, dedicated to selling these conversational prompt cards, was created for anyone like me who's looking to cut down their screen time by offering a stimulating, alternative activity for the brain.
But if you're looking for more ways to cut down, then I've got you. Here are my top three tips for reducing screen time:
Recognize Your Triggers: First step? Figure out what makes you reach for your phone. Boredom? Stress? Knowing your triggers is half the battle.
Try Something Else: Instead of scrolling, replace that time with something you actually enjoy—reading, cooking, talking, whatever. Just not more screen time!
Turn Off Notifications: Seriously, just do it. No more buzzing, pinging, or glowing screens calling you to check every little thing.
Know I'm With You: The next time you're left alone while whoever you're with pops to the loo and you instinctively reach for your phone, resist the urge. Just sit there, look around, and truly live in the moment until they return. If it feels awkward, that's good—sit with it. And listen for me cheering you on with a quiet 'Go you'.
I really hope none of this comes across as condescending. I just know what works for me and feel it's important to share that.
How can we guide our kids on any of this if we haven't managed to control it ourselves?
The constant notifications, endless swiping, and dopamine hits aren’t just affecting how our kids focus—they’re shaping how they grow up, how they interact with the world around them, and even how they see themselves.
A bit worrying, right?
Phones are changing childhood, and not always for the better. Smashing our devices might not be the solution, but there is another way.
Cheers,
Stef
P.S This blog is part of my new newlsetter series.
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