If grabbing your phone to endlessly scroll through updates, emails, and notifications is a common habit, you’re not alone. But what if I said that this behavior is undermining your motivation for the day ahead? It’s true, and comprehending why can significantly impact how you begin your mornings.
The culprit behind our incessant need to check our phones is dopamine, famously dubbed the “motivator chemical.” It’s the driving force behind all our motivations. However, when we overdose on dopamine through endless scrolling on social media, we set ourselves up for a motivation meltdown. This dopamine overload increases our baseline, making our brains yearn for more of that quick, easy fix. The result? A vicious cycle of craving and scrolling that leaves us tired, anxious, and unable to focus on anything else.
But here’s the silver lining: our dependence on dopamine resets overnight. That means each morning offers a fresh start and the perfect opportunity to break the cycle. By avoiding your phone first thing in the morning, you maintain a low dopamine baseline, making it easier to find motivation for more meaningful activities throughout the day.
This can lead to increased productivity, better focus, and a greater sense of fulfillment in your daily life. So, tomorrow morning, try leaving your phone on airplane mode for the first hour after waking up. See how it feels to start your day without the constant distractions and notifications. You may be surprised at how much more you can accomplish and how much better you feel overall.
How can you break the habit? Begin by keeping your phone out of the bedroom. Replace it with a traditional alarm clock. You can also utilize apps such as BePresent to restrict access to your most tempting apps in the morning. Believe me, you will appreciate it later.
Breaking a habit requires time and effort. Be patient and celebrate small wins. Surround yourself with supportive loved ones to stay accountable. Remember why you wanted to break the habit. Stay strong and committed.
But why stop there? The benefits of disconnecting from your phone extend beyond just the morning. Avoiding your phone before bed can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall wellbeing. This is because our brains cycle through different waves of activity that are essential for relaxation, creativity, and deep sleep. Using your phone disrupts these cycles, making it harder for your brain to wind down.
Instead of scrolling, consider healthier evening routines like reading a book or practicing mindfulness exercises. These activities help your brain transition smoothly into sleep, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day without the immediate need for digital stimulation.
And what about the morning? Instead of diving straight into the digital fray, give your brain the gentle wake-up it deserves. Simple activities like deep breathing, making a mindful cup of coffee, or even just enjoying the silence can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
Exercise, mindfulness, and connecting with loved ones are just a few alternatives that can enrich your mental wellbeing. By making a conscious effort to minimize phone usage, especially during the critical moments before bed and upon waking, you’re not just improving your sleep. You’re setting yourself up for a more focused, productive, and fulfilling day.
Your morning sets the tone for the entire day. By reclaiming the first moments of your day from your phone, you open up a world of possibilities for creativity, motivation, and peace. So tomorrow morning, resist the urge to check your phone. Instead, breathe in the new day, and embrace the potential it holds. Your brain—and your spirit—will thank you for it.
Related posts:
Stop looking at your phone first thing in the morning
Why You Should Stop Checking Your Phone In The Morning (And What To Do Instead)
How To Stop Reaching For Your Phone Right When You Wake Up
