10 Tried-and-True Methods to Stay Off Your Phone, According to Our Readers

How do you creatively limit your phone use?

We asked NPR’s audience this question last week in a story about how to resist the urge to keep checking your phone. Experts shared practical tips, like keeping your device outside the bedroom or downloading blockers that limit apps on your phone.

Dozens of listeners emailed us with their cleverest, tried-and-true methods. One person charges their phone in a different room to prevent picking it up. Another keeps a notebook with his phone and writes down his questions there instead of searching for the answers.

Here are a few ideas from our readers. These have been edited for length and clarity.

Delete social media altogether

This may seem a bit drastic, but it was very effective. I got rid of my social media account. After a couple stints of temporarily deactivating my account, last summer I made the decision to delete my account for good. I haven’t looked back. I realized I was craving connection and validation and decided to pursue that in the real world instead. — Kat Morones