Let’s talk about something that’s become far too normal: our phones.
Specifically—our need to check them. Constantly.
If you’re like me, you probably remember a time when we didn’t live this way. I didn’t grow up with a smartphone in my hand. Texting wasn’t always a thing. There was a time—not even that long ago—when email wasn’t in my pocket, social media wasn’t buzzing, and I wasn’t tethered to a screen every waking moment. But things have changed. And like so many, I’ve found myself swept up in the habit of checking… again and again.
At some point, it became too much. I realized I was distracted—even in the moments that mattered most. I’d check a quick message, only to resurface ten minutes later, missing what was right in front of me.
And I’m not alone. Studies show that the average person checks their phone every 10 minutes. Another survey revealed that 84% of people say they couldn’t go a full day without their phone. Think about that. One day.
We’ve moved past convenience and into dependency. And while technology can be an amazing tool, it’s costing us more than we realize.
It’s costing us connection.
It’s deteriorating our relationships.
It’s robbing us of eye contact, spontaneous conversation, and the everyday magic that happens when we’re actually here.
So I made a change.
I started creating No Phone Zones in my life. Intentional spaces where my phone is put away—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Here are a few of mine:
- The car. No texts. No emails. No social scrolls. Nothing is more important than arriving safely.
- Dinner time. Whether we’re at home or out, it’s a moment to reconnect—not distract.
- Evenings with my girls. They deserve my attention. Fully.
- Bedtime. No doom-scrolling before sleep. I want calm, not chaos, as I end my day.
- Important conversations and events. Because memories are made through presence, not posts.
It hasn’t been easy—especially when work and life are managed through my device. But the freedom I feel when I step away? Worth it. Every time.
One of the most poignant reminders came from my daughter. Years ago, she made me a custom phone wrapper. It was covered in hearts, colors, and her handwriting. It was sweet—and sobering. Because the message behind the gift was clear: Mom, your phone is always with you. I want to be seen too.
So now, I keep that case close. It reminds me to pause. To put the phone down. To choose connection over convenience.
If this resonates with you, try it. Pick one no phone zone. Start there.
You don’t need to be connected all the time to be effective, successful, or responsive. In fact, some of your most important moments will happen in the spaces where your phone isn’t.
So here’s your invitation:
Create your own No Phone Zones.
Not as a punishment. But as a gift.
To yourself. To your people. To the life that’s happening right in front of you.
You won’t regret it.
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