Turning Tech Into a Tool, Not a Distraction: Making Your Phone Work for You

Balanced Life

Hey friends! Before becoming a mom, I had a demanding retail management career. My phone was my constant companion, even in the middle of the night, thanks to those dreaded alarm calls. The moment I handed in my store keys, I finally silenced my phone, free from the alerts that had dictated my sleep for years. Today, I want to give you permission to make similar changes—steps that will help you feel less tied to your phone and more anchored in what matters most.

The Phone Habit: How Often Are We Checking?

A study by Asurion in 2019 revealed that the average person checks their phone 96 times a day—about once every 10 minutes! Imagine if we could reduce these constant interruptions. The American Psychological Association also found that frequent notifications reduce productivity by up to 40%. What could we accomplish if we reduced these distractions?

Embracing Tech with Purpose

Our phones are powerful tools, but we need to decide to use them intentionally rather than allowing them to control us. Here are some practical steps for regaining control:

1. Turn Off Non-Essential NotificationsMany notifications, like those from social media or emails, are designed to grab our attention. But they often just increase anxiety and disrupt our tasks. A study by McGill University showed that turning off notifications can increase productivity by up to 50% and reduce stress.

2. Set Boundaries with NotificationsHere’s what I keep on: calls, texts, and apps for my kids’ school and sports activities, like ParentSquare. These notifications are essential for family communication, but I leave out the endless social media pings and shopping updates. Consider which notifications actually support your goals and well-being and turn off the rest.

3. Use Your Phone’s Home Screen IntentionallyOrganize your phone’s home screen with apps that nurture your faith, family, and purpose. I keep my Bible app, calendar, and reminders on my front screen, while social media apps are hidden on later screens. Out of sight, out of mind!

4. Set Goals in SightAs a visual reminder of my goals, I set my vision board as my background. Harvard Business Review found that visual cues can boost motivation by 33%, so imagine the power of seeing your goals every time you glance at your phone.

5. Optimize Your Watch and CalendarIf you have a smartwatch, use it selectively for notifications. I only allow calls and essential reminders to come through on my watch, so it’s an effective tool without becoming a distraction. I also integrate my work and personal calendars to help me see a full picture of my schedule, creating more balance and boundaries.

Taking Control: Protecting Your Peace

Reducing notifications, limiting phone time, and organizing apps aren’t just productivity hacks—they’re powerful ways to protect our peace. In a world where we’re expected to be available 24/7, setting boundaries allows us to focus on what matters most: faith, family, purpose and dreams. As you make these changes, give yourself grace. It’s a process, but every step toward intentionality will help you live more anchored and less distracted.