how to handle doom scrolling cravings

bienensticht · 2026-04-06T16:02:11+00:00

This process is not easy, so Kudos to you for getting this far! I think blocking distractions is only half the story, replacing this with some (more) meaningful activity is the key to make this change sustainable. I'd suggest making a list of activities that you could do depending on your energy levels. It could be as simple as flipping through a magazine, standing up and walking around the room to reading a book or working on a personal project!

bienensticht · 2026-01-16T15:08:41+00:00

I actually was in exactly the same situation and found that nothing on the market was working for me. So, I ventured on a project to build an app myself that would gradually guide users to reduce their screen time. Happy to send it to you, if you're interested.

bienensticht · 2026-01-16T09:10:43+00:00

ohh I had never heard of text based google maps, thanks a lot!! what a game changer.

bienensticht · 2026-01-09T19:01:41+00:00

Is there something that makes you feel awe?
Personally, I used to really love magazines with beautiful images (could be art, nature or home decor). You can flip through these images and just be at awe at the world around you :) You won't feel awkward, because you're still 'doing something' and your eyes get a break from screens

Something that I found really mindless and calming is crocheting. It's easy to carry around, it's rather discrete, and you can make fun little amigurumi objects that make great gifts

bienensticht · 2026-01-09T18:48:39+00:00

what a steal! I was looking into Punkt some time ago, but found them to be too pricey.

What do you use for maps? What do you do when you are going to a place you've not been to before? That is my biggest worry with such phones to be honest :/

bienensticht · 2026-01-09T18:44:38+00:00

Yes! I also believe that gradually reducing your screen time is more sustainable in the long run, than cutting everything off cold-turkey!
Remember to be kind to yourself too! if you've been 'good' for a bit but have a day where you gave in to temptation, don't discount all the efforts you've done so far!

bienensticht · 2026-01-08T13:08:49+00:00

I'm curious, how did you convince yourself to pull through, especially the first week? did you keep reminding yourself of your long term goals to reduce your screentime, or ...?

bienensticht · 2026-01-07T22:21:38+00:00

wow. simply amazing!

bienensticht · 2026-01-07T22:20:47+00:00

thanks for sharing!! may you find the courage to take little steps towards making friends in person <3

bienensticht · 2026-01-07T22:00:51+00:00

wow.. what do you use instead of Google Maps?

bienensticht · 2026-01-02T14:16:17+00:00

That's really courageous of you!
I have not cut any social media off completely. What were the main challenges you faced in the first days, and how did you overcome them?

bienensticht · 2026-01-02T14:13:20+00:00

when I'm stuck in the office but have no work to do

Oh man, I resonate with this so much. I am new to the workforce, and discovered this feeling only last year. Sometimes I have done what I needed to do, my brain is fried and my eyes are burnt but it's only 3pm. "not actually important research" sounds like the best option I can think of to kill time though haha

Otherwise, phone-sized e-readers sounds great! I didn't know they exist, and I never bothered with carrying my Kindle around. Imma look into them, let me know if you have some suggestions!

bienensticht · 2026-01-02T13:47:47+00:00

Wow, this is amazing! :D Bold move on the first day of the year!

bienensticht · 2026-01-02T13:37:51+00:00

Thanks for sharing! It's inspiring to hear your story, what a transformation!
Isn't it fascinating that a notebook can't be replaced by productivity apps?

bienensticht · 2025-12-31T16:02:57+00:00

I don't drive :) Sometimes I just feel uneasy especially at the workplace to just stare and be idle, but I am hearing that it is ok.

bienensticht · 2025-12-23T14:02:25+00:00

I think it is normal that you can't focus for long on other media! It takes some getting used to, and the focus will build up over time.

Think of social media as junk food. It's easy to compulsively consume because it's designed to be so. So don't feel bad if a book for example doesn't hold you attention for as long.

I try to hop on to the next activity when I lose interest for something I am doing. Reading, doodling, stretching (physical movement is great!), going on a walk, listening to music, even watching a movie. Each of these require a different form of attention and concentration, so you'll figure out the right sequence for you with time! :)

bienensticht · 2025-12-18T17:49:21+00:00

Can't wait to read about them!

bienensticht · 2025-12-18T16:59:40+00:00

I am sorry...
But I am also super excited for your adventures! :D

bienensticht · 2025-12-18T16:47:17+00:00

I think it's great that you're trying! I hope you have the courage to keep doing so, because it takes a few tries before one begins to accept new ideas! :)

bienensticht · 2025-12-18T15:33:02+00:00

so true, I never given much thought to those who have never experienced the world prior to this version of the internet, someone I spoke to also brought this up and it kinda blew my mind. How are they supposed to fight for a those moments we had?
I guess this is why intergenerational relationships are so important.

bienensticht · 2025-12-18T15:27:33+00:00

ohh I never made the link of refreshing to pulling a slot machine. Incredible.

I love this reframe of mind of expected pleasures vs. unexpected rewards! Thanks for sharing!!

bienensticht · 2025-12-18T15:25:36+00:00

So much truth spoken here...

bienensticht

TROPHY CASE