| I found that going cold turkey never really worked for me. What I did find worked was tracking my usage and reporting on it each week. Most of my mindless usage happens on my phone, so I used the built-in Google Wellbeing app. Every week I'd write down my hours on key problem apps (reddit, facebook, youtube) and then comment on it. Perhaps I spent more time than usual on youtube this week, or I was able to cut things down. Recording this metric allows for several benefits: 1. Create correlations. For example, I found that I was weakest during weekends when I didn't have any plans to start my day. I then fixed this by ensuring I always had some kind of task/event first thing in the morning. 2. Allow for non-internalised judgement. Since everything is reflected on after the fact, you can judge your performance without beating yourself up. The bit of perspective really helps. 3. Allows for celebration. When you do improve, you are able to celebrate and feel proud of your achievement. I've found this boost to be really motivating. |