Manage your Mobile
I get it – our phones are our lifelines, especially when running a small business. They help us stay connected, manage our operations, and keep everything running smoothly. But let's be realistic - sometimes it feels like our phones are running us instead.
If you're constantly checking your phone, feeling overwhelmed by notifications, or struggling to stay focused, this blog is for you. As a Productivity Coach and Virtual Assistant, I face these challenges daily, and I'm here to share some tips to help you regain control.
The stats:
Let’s look at some eye-opening facts about our phone usage:
First Thing in the Morning: Approximately 80% of smartphone users check their phones within 15 minutes of waking up
Daily Phone Checks: On average, we check our phones 148+ times a day
Notifications: We get about 46 push notifications daily
Phone Unlocks: We unlock our phones around 150 times a day
Checking Phones During Leisure Activities: 70% of people check their phones within 1 minute of receiving a notification, even if they're watching TV or engaged in another leisure activity (we all know the concept of double screening!)
Before Sleep: 71% of people sleep with or next to their smartphones, and many check their phones right before going to bed
These numbers are huge! And for small business owners, they might be even higher because we rely on our phones for everything – from emails and social media to managing sales and communicating with clients.
Why it matters:
Constant phone checks and notifications can seriously mess with our productivity. Did you know it takes about 23 minutes to refocus after an interruption? That means every time we check our phone, we're potentially losing valuable time. Plus, the mental fatigue from switching tasks constantly can lead to burnout.
The Impact it has:
Beyond productivity, our phone habits can affect our personal lives and mental health. Constant connectivity can create a sense of always being “on,” leading to stress and anxiety. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with our sleep patterns, making it harder to wind down at the end of the day.
And don’t get me started on the challenges you could create for yourself with eye strain and even neck pain – both are real!
Lastly, the habit of checking our phones during every spare moment can detract from quality time with family and friends, reducing the depth of our interactions and connections.
“We don’t have a choice on whether we use smartphones. The choice is how we use them”
Top 10 tips to manage your phone:
If you recognise any of the behaviours above, then this is the bit you need to read a few times to help you start to control your phone.
1. Set specific times for checking notifications
Instead of constantly checking your phone, try setting specific times to check your notifications. Maybe you check them at the top of each hour or during natural breaks in your day. This helps you stay focused and reduces the urge to look at your phone all the time. Setting “phone check” times can also help you batch tasks, which is more efficient and less distracting.
2. Use “Do Not Disturb” during focus hours
Use the “Do Not Disturb” feature when you need to get things done. This can be during work hours when you’re in a meeting, or even when you’re having some much-needed downtime. Trust me, those messages will still be there when you’re done. Consider customising your settings to allow important contacts to reach you, so you won’t miss anything critical while still minimising interruptions.
3. Limit screen time before bed
We all know how important sleep is, but it’s easy to forget when scrolling through our phones late at night. Try setting a “digital curfew” an hour before bed to help you wind down. Your future self will thank you. Reading a book, meditating, or enjoying a warm drink can be great alternatives to screen time before bed, helping you relax and prepare for a restful night.
4. Allocate phone-free time
Pick certain times of the day to be phone-free. This could be during meals, family time, or when working out. It’s amazing how refreshing it can be to disconnect, even for a little while. You might be surprised at how much more present and engaged you feel during these moments, enhancing your relationships and personal well-being.
5. Use productivity tools
There are so many apps out there designed to help you stay productive. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Slack can help you manage tasks and communicate efficiently without needing to check your phone constantly. Find what works for you and stick with it.
Additionally, consider using time management apps like Pomodoro timers to structure your work sessions and break times, boosting your overall productivity.
6. Prioritise tasks with a to-do list
Start your day with a clear plan. A to-do list helps you prioritise what needs to get done and keeps you focused. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than checking things off your list! Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to maintain momentum and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.
7. Set boundaries with clients
It’s important to set communication boundaries with your clients. Let them know your preferred / working times for calls and messages, and try to stick to those guidelines. This helps manage expectations and reduces the need to be constantly available. Clear communication upfront can lead to more respectful and effective interactions, enabling better relationships with your clients.
8. Embrace digital minimalism
Consider adopting a digital minimalist approach. This means being more intentional about the apps you use and the time you spend on your phone. Regularly review and declutter your apps and notifications. Keeping only essential apps on your phone can reduce distractions and help you focus on what truly matters.
9. Engage in mindfulness practices
Incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help you stay grounded and present. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even a short walk without your phone can make a big difference. These moments of mindfulness can reduce stress and improve your overall mental clarity.
10. Reflect on your phone usage
Take some time to reflect on your phone usage patterns – all smartphones can show how much you use your phone/which apps you spend the most time on. Are there specific triggers that lead you to check your phone? Are there certain times of the day when you’re more prone to distraction? Understanding your habits can help you make more conscious choices about when and how to use your phone.
Once you understand your habits, let your phone help you not hinder you! You can set ‘timers by app’ and ‘screen time goals’ on your phone to help you start working with your phone in a way that’s as good for your wellbeing as it is for your business!
Summary
Finding the balance between using your phone for work and not letting it take over your life is tough, but it’s definitely doable. By implementing these tips, you can take control of your phone usage, boost your productivity, and improve your overall well-being. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and making small changes that can lead to big improvements.
Ready to take control of your phone usage and boost your productivity? I can help you find the right balance and make your phone work for you, not against you. Whether you need personalised strategies, productivity tools, or just some friendly advice, I'm here to support you.
