Take back control of your phone and your time with these five simple, actionable steps to create a distraction-free digital experience.

Why: To break free from constant pings and keep your phone for the essentials.

How:

Delete non-essentials: Remove social media, games, and binge-worthy distractions. Keep only what you truly need—calls, texts, maps, etc. For those pesky “unremovable” apps, use tools like ADB App Control for Android or Apple Configurator (iOS) to banish them for good.
Upgrade your blocking game: My go-to is Brick, a one-time purchase for a device that physically limits distractions. For iOS, you can hide app access by using Screentime with Password-Locker to lock yourself out (literally).

Why: Notifications are dopamine triggers designed to pull you away from your priorities.
How:
- On iOS: Go to Settings > Notifications, and disable all non-essential alerts.
- On Android: Head to Settings > Apps & Notifications > Notifications, and take back your peace.
Pro tip: Do you really need any push notifications? Probably not.

Why: A clear home screen = less temptation.
How:
- Minimalist launchers: For Android, try Olauncher. On iOS, explore Dumbify to pare things down.
- Declutter widgets: No weather updates, no breaking news, no nonsense. Just keep the essentials (if any).

Why: Surfing the web is a rabbit hole of endless distractions.
How:
- Browser banishment: Disable or uninstall your web browser. Yes, really. Use ADB App Control (Android) or Apple Configurator (iOS) to ensure it’s gone for good.
- Data discipline: Switch to a low or no-data plan like US Mobile for enforced simplicity.

Why: Less functionality = less opportunity for distraction.
How:
- Enable “Basic Mode”: Many smartphones come with a simple or easy mode to streamline their interface. Turn it on and breathe easier.
- Consider dumbphone alternatives: If all else fails, opt for a minimalist phone or app combination that restricts usage by design. Check the home page for solutions :)