I get asked all the time how I have time for anything other than work.
Things like:
A side business
Dog training
Pickleball with friends
Workout classes
Disclaimer: it doesn’t have much to do with being single with no kids — and everything to do with what we all have!
A phone!
Here's how I found 90 extra minutes a day to pursue my interests by changing the way I use my phone:
—
1) Making my desk a "no phone zone."
This means when I'm at my desk working, I don't use my phone. It's face down or on do not disturb.
This allows me to:
Be present at work
Get work done faster
Leaving me working less hours
Having time for other things
Getting up from my desk to use my phone can make a great, intentional break too!
Saves: ~30 minutes
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2) Having little to no notifications on my home screen.
99% of notifications that pop up on our home screen don't need our attention THIS MINUTE!
This:
Distracts us
Slows us down
Keeps us from doing other things we want to do
We can adjust our phone settings so the only things we need to be notified of NOW show up (like texts from loved ones).
3 phone settings to not overlook:
—Remove email notifications from popping up on home screen
That way you get to choose when you look at emails instead of someone else choosing for you
—Mute group chats
These can blow up your phone! Mute it & choose when you want to check it instead of 10 other people choosing for you
—Limit social media notifications
Sorry not sorry but you do not need to know when Eggnog the Bulldog posted a new video! Even consider if you need your DM notifications on.
My apple watch friends - think about how you can apply this to your watch too!
If you're worried about staying in the loop -
I like having an intentional time to check these notifications like lunch or evenings.
Saves: ~30 minutes
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3) Delaying phone usage in the morning
I like to challenge myself to do my morning routine before picking up my phone.
The time I would spend scrolling in bed first thing in the morning is replaced with:
Hobbies
Interests
Self-care
The morning is the most underrated time to get these things in; don’t pass it up!
Bonus!
Delaying your phone usage allows YOU to choose what you want to think about first thing in the morning & set the tone for your day!
Saves: ~30 minutes
--
That's 90 minutes a day you've found to pursue interests without even thinking!
The key:
YOU can take control of your time & attention, instead of someone else taking it from you!
You will be amazed the time you get back & the things you can do!