Inputting Instead of Ouputting: How to Avoid Picking Up Your Phone First Thing in the Morning

We've all gotten into the habit of reaching for our phones the moment we open our eyes. We've made it a habit to roll over, squint at the bright light, and reach for the precious device that seemingly contains all the information, entertainment, and social interaction in the world.

But what if we were to stop this ritual? What if we were to try to avoid picking up our phones first thing in the morning?

The morning is a crucial time of day in terms of productivity. It sets the tone for the rest of your day and you must fill it with positive input instead of getting lost in an endless scroll of news, notifications, and social media updates.

Instead of reaching for your phone, start your day off with something more meaningful. Spend some time meditating or reflecting on the day ahead, enjoy a warm cup of coffee, or take a brisk walk around the block. Any of these activities provide you with a much-needed mental break from the demands of the world and will help you start the day with a clearer, more focused mind.

At a more practical level, taking a break from technology in the morning allows you to give your brain a rest. Social media and online services are typically designed to be addictive and can put your brain on a hyper-productive overdrive if you're not careful. This can leave you feeling foggy and disoriented, so it's important to start the day with a healthy routine that doesn't revolve around a screen.